S1629
An Act relative to the theft of graves
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Bill overview
This bill seeks to strengthen the legal penalties and protections surrounding the theft of human remains from graves, cemeteries, and burial grounds. It aims to address the issue of desecration of graves, which is considered a serious violation of respect for the deceased and their families. The legislation intends to provide clearer legal definitions and potentially enhance enforcement efforts to deter such crimes.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘theft of graves’ more explicitly.
- Increases the potential penalties for individuals convicted of desecrating graves.
- May establish guidelines for reporting and investigating incidents of grave theft.
- Could provide additional protections for cemeteries and burial grounds.
- Clarifies the scope of what constitutes a ‘grave’ for legal purposes.
Who is affected
- Cemetery operators
- Families of the deceased
- Law enforcement agencies
- Individuals involved in grave desecration
- The public
Notable changes
- The bill may introduce specific provisions regarding the handling of remains recovered after a theft.
- It could strengthen the legal framework surrounding the protection of burial sites.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
Cosponsors
Bruce E. Tarr
Jacob R. Oliveira
James B. Eldridge
Joan B. Lovely
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.1629 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the theft of graves
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1629) of Bruce E. Tarr and Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation relative to the larceny that violates graves, cemeteries and burial grounds.. Public Health.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Bruce E. Tarr Status: Referred to Senate Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.1629
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Public Health |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 6/30/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 07/10/2025 from 09:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-1 |
| 1/8/2026 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means |
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