Mayes' Plan Honors Vets, Cracks Down on Vandalizing War Memorials

Lawmaker's Plan Places New Penalties Into State's Sentencing Guidelines

February 12, 2009
By: MyBayCity Staff

PRESS RELEASE: In a move to honor our veterans and protect their legacy from appalling acts of vandalism, State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) today introduced a package of bills that will crack down on vandalizing war memorials. The Bay City lawmaker's plan writes new penalties for anyone who destroys or vandalizes any war memorial into the state's sentencing guidelines.

"The brave men and women of our armed forces deserve our respect and through this plan, we can honor their service," Mayes said. "These memorials are a tribute to the sacrifices made by our service men and women and should not be desecrated by vandals."

Mayes' plan is headed for the House Judiciary Committee. In keeping with his pledge to forge working relationships across the aisle, Mayes worked with State Representative Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) on this bill package. Jones' legislation makes it a felony to destroy or vandalize any war memorial.

"It's an unfortunate fact that there are some out there who would violate the sanctity of these memorials," Mayes said. "My plan will ensure that anyone who dares commit such a despicable act will pay the consequences."