Bertie's Respect for National Cemeteries Act
Bill Summary
This bill would allow for the disinterment of veterans convicted of either state or federal capital crimes and their removal from National Cemeteries. The bill would also require the Dept. of Veterans Administration National Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery to verify that a veteran is eligible for burial prior to their internment in a National Cemetery.
View full bill text ➔
How do you feel?
One click sends your opinion
Oppose
Support
Opponents say
Opponents argue that while such crimes are indeed terrible, the military service of the veteran is what should be considered when determining their eligibility to be buried in a National Cemetery. Even the commission of a capital crime should not outweigh that military service.
Proponents say
The bill's author, Rep. Lou Barletta (R-PA-11th) stated “Our national military cemeteries are hallowed ground, and they ought to be treated that way. Our brave men and women have sacrificed so that we may remain free, and they should be afforded every right, privilege, and honor they have earned. The cemeteries we reserve for them should not be tainted by those who have been convicted of the most heinous crimes imaginable.”
