Senate approves proposal to construct Bill of Rights monument at Capitol

The state Senate today approved legislation that would allow a monument to the Bill of Rights to be placed on the grounds of the State Capitol.
Sen. Patrick Anderson, author of Senate Bill 1159, said the proposal was a unifying project signifying the importance of the individual freedoms enshrined by the Bill of Rights.

“The liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights deserve to be given a place of prominence,” said Anderson, R-Enid. “As lawmakers, we must govern by constitutional principles, and this monument will serve as a powerful reminder of our guiding values. By authorizing this project, the Legislature can send a message to the people that protecting these liberties will remain our foremost priority.”

Anderson noted all costs associated with the project would be paid for with private donations. Arizona became the first state to dedicate a monument to the Bill of Rights at their State Capitol in 2012.

“Establishing this monument will give Oklahomans a chance to celebrate one of our country’s most significant accomplishments for years to come,” Anderson said.

A bipartisan group of 41 lawmakers have joined as co-authors of the measure, which was approved by unanimous vote. SB 1159 now advances to the House for consideration.