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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007
CONTACT:
Carol Maravic
717-787-6725
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Orie Bill Would Prohibit Using Names, Images Of Fallen Soldiers for Commercial Profit

Seeking to protect the rights families of soldiers who have died in Iraq, Sen. Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) has introduced legislation prohibiting the use of the name or likeness of a fallen soldier for commercial profit.

Orie said the issue first came to light when an Oklahoma family discovered various materials being marketed on E-Bay bearing the image of their son who died in combat in Iraq.  A Flagstaff, Arizona, company that sells anti-war and anti-Bush bumper stickers via the Internet was distributing the T-shirts, which included the names or images of fallen soldiers, along with a super-imposed political message.

"While political speech is rightfully protected by the state and federal constitutions, I believe it is disrespectful and unnecessary to compound a family's tragedy when conveying a message," Orie said.  "That is particularly true it is done without that family's consent and without sharing the proceeds with the soldier's estate. These unscrupulous vendors are shamelessly turning a profit from the sacrifice of our soldiers."

Orie noted that legislation was enacted last year in Oklahoma and Louisiana to prohibit such conduct.  Legislation is also pending in numerous other states, as well as the United States Congress.

Her bill would make it a misdemeanor to publish for commercial purposes a fallen soldier's name or image without the family’s consent, and would preserve the family's right to file a civil suit to protect their privacy and attach any proceeds.

"I believe it is important that we protect the families of fallen soldiers from exploitation," Orie said.  "Profiting from the very individuals who died for our security and protection is shameful," Orie said. This measure will give military families recourse from this violation of privacy and decency."