West Virginia Senate Bill SCR19

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/25
• Refer: 3/17/25
• Engrossed: 4/2/25
• Report Pass: 4/4/25
• Enrolled: 4/4/25

Caption

US Army ST4 Gregory Kent Stephens Memorial Bridge

Summary

SCR 19 is a simple commemorative resolution directing the West Virginia Division of Highways to name bridge number 23-016/83-000.02, locally known as the Bull Hollow Beam Span crossing Buffalo Creek in Logan County, as the "U.S. Army SP4 Gregory K. Stephens Memorial Bridge." The resolution recites biographical details about Gregory Kent Stephens, including his birth in Huntington, military service in the U.S. Army beginning in 1974, his work as a Food Service Specialist and Specialist 4th Class, his awards and honorable discharge, and his later life in West Virginia with his family. The measure also requests that the Division of Highways place signs identifying the bridge with the memorial name and directs the Senate Clerk to send a copy of the resolution to the Commissioner of the Division of Highways. As a concurrent resolution, it does not create a new regulatory program or alter substantive law; instead, it expresses the Legislature’s intent to honor an individual by assigning a ceremonial bridge designation and prompting the installation of signage.

Impact

The bill’s practical effect is limited to the naming of a specific bridge in Logan County and the associated signage request. It does not amend the West Virginia Code, impose duties on private parties, or change transportation policy beyond the administrative act of memorial bridge designation by the Division of Highways. Its impact is primarily symbolic and local, affecting state highway naming records, signage, and public recognition of the honoree.

Sentiment

The available context suggests a positive and respectful sentiment around the resolution. The bill is framed entirely as a tribute to Gregory K. Stephens, emphasizing his military service, awards, work ethic, family life, and connection to Logan County. There are no recorded votes or committee objections in the provided materials, and the committee substitute status indicates the measure moved through the transportation committee in a routine commemorative fashion.

Contention

No notable contention is evident in the provided record. Because the resolution is honorary and site-specific, any discussion would likely center on whether the honoree’s service and local ties justify the memorial designation, but no opposing views, amendments, or vote splits are included. The only practical consideration implied by the text is the Division of Highways’ responsibility to install and maintain the bridge signs.