CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A newly proposed bill, House Bill 3304, seeks to establish patriotic memorials across West Virginia to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The bill outlines plans for monuments in four regions of the state and creates a commission to oversee their construction.
Key Provisions of House Bill 3304
The bill introduces several initiatives to honor the nation’s Semiquincentennial:
- Monuments to be built statewide: Statues will be constructed in northern, southern, eastern, and western West Virginia.
- Patriotic themes: The statues will celebrate the nation’s founding and highlight West Virginia’s state heritage.
- Completion deadline: All monuments must be erected before 2026, in time for the country’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Creation of a Commission
To oversee the project, the bill establishes a commission, which will be formed on July 1, 2025. The commission will be responsible for planning, budgeting, and selecting construction vendors while adhering to state purchasing laws.
The commission will include:
- The Curator of the Department of Arts, Culture, and History (who will serve as chairperson).
- A member of the West Virginia House of Delegates (appointed by the Speaker of the House).
- A member of the West Virginia Senate (appointed by the Senate President).
The commission will solicit bids for monument construction and ensure timely completion before 2026. Meetings will be scheduled with at least five days’ notice, and a majority vote will be required for decisions.
Next Steps
If passed, House Bill 3304 will ensure that West Virginia plays a key role in honoring America’s 250 years of history. Supporters say the bill will boost tourism, celebrate state heritage, and promote patriotism throughout the region. The bill is currently under review in the West Virginia Legislature.
