Senate Approves Pippy Bill to Protect Rights of Grieving Military Families
Measure limits pickets at funerals.

Harrisburg -- Legislation sponsored by Sen. John Pippy (R-37) and Sen. Bob Regola (R-39) to limit the scope of protests at funerals and memorial services has been approved by the state Senate.

Senator Pippy and colleagues took action following news reports of protestors at military funerals in Pennsylvania and around the country. The pickets target grieving family members with vulgar language and other harassment to protest social and political issues.

"At a time when compassion is called for, some protesters offer only hatred and bile. It's all the worse because the family is trying to grieve over the loss of someone who dedicated his or her life to protecting the rights of all citizens," said Senator Pippy. "This bill was carefully written to be limited in scope. It is founded on the principle that a funeral is certainly a place where citizens have a legitimate expectation of privacy."

Senate Bill 1150 is supported by a bipartisan group of lawmakers from both chambers of the General Assembly. A similar version was introduced by Rep. Jennifer Mann (D-132) in the House of Representatives.

"I am very pleased that the Senate quickly moved this bill to the House," Senator Regola said. "The message we are sending is crystal clear. It is truly reprehensible that a few individuals would act to turn solemn, dignified memorial services into a publicity stunt. That behavior is unacceptable and those actions will not be tolerated."

The bills would require protesters to remain 500 feet from any funeral, memorial service or memorial procession beginning one hour before and ending one hour after the event. Violators would be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor.

Senator Don White (R-41), who chairs the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, said the measure would crack down on irresponsible behavior at memorial services.

"It is a sad state of affairs when legislation is necessary to ensure common decency, but it is truly reprehensible that a few protestors are actually trying to turn these solemn, dignified memorial services into some kind of a circus," said Senator White. "I agree with my colleagues, that behavior is unacceptable and it is time we send them packing."

Wisconsin, Indiana and South Dakota have recently enacted laws limiting protests at funerals, and at least 12 other states are considering similar legislation. The legislation is supported by the American Legion, the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police and the Pennsylvania War Veterans Council and other organizations.

Senate Bill 1150 now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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CONTACT: Matt Campion (412) 262-2260

Senate Approves Pippy Bill to Protect Rights of Grieving Military Families Measure limits pickets at funerals.

Senate Approves Pippy Bill to Protect Rights of Grieving Military Families
Measure limits pickets at funerals.