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Bill

Bill

HB 3227

Relating to the removal, relocation, alteration, or construction of certain monuments or memorials located on public property; authorizing a civil penalty.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ben Bumgarner and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill restricts removal, relocation, or alteration of public monuments and memorials while imposing civil penalties for noncompliance with specified procedures.

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Bill Summary · HB 3227

Legislative bill overview

HB 3227 establishes procedures and restrictions governing the removal, relocation, alteration, or construction of monuments and memorials on public property in Texas. The bill authorizes civil penalties for violations of these procedures, creating legal consequences for unauthorized modifications to such structures.

Why is this important

Monument and memorial policies touch on questions of public history, community identity, and resource allocation. This legislation directly affects what local governments and public institutions can do with existing commemorative structures, potentially influencing debates over historical narratives and community representation on public lands.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition clarity: The bill's specific definitions of which structures qualify as "monuments or memorials" and which public properties are covered remain unclear from the bill title alone, potentially creating ambiguity in enforcement
  • Approval processes and authority: Questions about whether local governments retain decision-making authority or face state-level restrictions, and what constitutes proper procedural compliance before modifications
  • Penalty structure and enforcement: The civil penalty provisions may be contested regarding appropriate penalty amounts, who enforces compliance, and whether penalties adequately deter or conversely overreach

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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