A resolution to memorialize the life of Charlie Kirk.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan Pinson

The bill memorializes Charlie Kirk and urges enactment of a First Amendment Freedom Act while designating commemorative observances and an education program to promote free speech

To House Judiciary

#resolutions

Bill summary: House Concurrent Resolution 14 (West Virginia, 2026)

Purpose and intent

HCR 14 is a memorial resolution requesting the passage of “The Charlie Kirk Memorial First Amendment Freedom Act” and designating commemorative observances connected to Charlie Kirk.

The resolution memorializes Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, highlighting his life, beliefs, and public impact. It also expresses condemnation of his murder and reinforces commitment to First Amendment rights, religious liberty, and open civil debate.

Key provisions and changes proposed

Recognition and condemnation

Condemns the killing of Charlie Kirk (on September 10, 2025) and expresses sorrow and condolences to his family and supporters.
Reaffirms West Virginia’s commitment to protecting the rights of Americans to peaceably assemble and express political views without fear of violence.

Legislative action and enactment

Requests the passage of The Charlie Kirk Memorial First Amendment Freedom Act and its signing into law by the Governor of West Virginia.

Observances and proclamations

Directs the Governor to proclaim:
Every Friday falling on or immediately after October 14 (Charlie Kirk’s birth date) as “First Amendment Freedom of Speech Day.”
The week containing October 14 as “First Amendment Freedom of Speech Appreciation Week.”
The Governor’s proclamations should recognize Kirk’s achievements in free speech and civil debate and note that his death was an attempt to silence those principles.

Education program

Directs the West Virginia Department of Education to implement a program recognizing Charlie Kirk and other Americans/West Virginians dedicated to the First Amendment and the free exercise of political speech and debate.

Communications

Requires the Clerk of the House to provide a certified copy of the resolution to Charlie Kirk’s family and Turning Point USA.

Who is affected

Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA (ceremonial acknowledgment and potential communications with the organization).

The State of West Virginia, including:

State government leadership (Governor and legislature) via proclamations and action on the memorial act.
West Virginia Department of Education, which would implement the commemorative educational program.
The general public, particularly students, who would participate in the department’s program and observe designated days/weeks.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced: January 27, 2026.

Referred to the Judiciary committee and then to Rules; then introduced in the House.

Sponsor: Delegate Jonathan Pinson (co-sponsor).

As a concurrent resolution, it originates in the House and would be sent to the Senate for potential concurrence; if enacted, it expresses the Legislature’s position and directs executive actions (proclamations and a commemorative program).

Observations

The bill is commemorative and ceremonial in nature, with symbolic honors (designation of by-name days/weeks, an educational program) rather than creating new substantive laws or funding programs beyond directing educational activities.

The central aim is to memorialize Charlie Kirk’s advocacy for First Amendment rights and to reinforce the importance of free speech and peaceful civic engagement in West Virginia.