Moran Sponsors Legislation to Prohibit Protesting at National Cemeteries

Also Honors Group for Shielding Military Families from Protesters at Funerals

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jerry Moran has sponsored legislation to prohibit protesters from disrupting funeral services at national cemeteries.  This legislation protects mourning military families during funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and at national veterans' cemeteries across the country. Moran voiced his support during today's hearing on the legislation held by the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

"When our servicemen and women make the ultimate sacrifice to protect Americans, we have a responsibility to ensure the families of our fallen heroes can bury their loved ones with dignity," Moran said.

The Respect for America's Fallen Heroes Act, H.R. 5037, prevents disruptions of military funerals at national cemeteries for one hour before and after services.  It also prohibits protesting within 500 feet of funerals.

Moran has also introduced legislation to commend Patriot Guard Riders for shielding military families from protesters at funerals. Founded in Mulvane, Kan., the Patriot Guard Riders are a nationwide group of tens of thousands of members who appear at the request of families to provide a buffer from protesters and show their respect for fallen service members at funerals.

"I first experienced the power of the Patriot Guard last year when hundreds of riders showed up to the funeral of a Kansas soldier who gave his life serving in Iraq," Moran said. "We can all be thankful for these patriots who provide families and friends the peaceful time of mourning they deserve." 

This legislation, H.Res. 731, is to express the U.S. House of Representatives' deepest appreciation to Patriot Guard Riders across the country for protecting military families and preserving the memory of our nation's fallen service members.

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