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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 3, 2007
CONTACT:
Carol Maravic
717-787-6725
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Senate Endorses Orie Legislation to Prohibit Using Names, Images of Fallen Soldiers for Commercial Profit

The state Senate today unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) that is aimed at protecting the rights of families of soldiers who have died in Iraq by 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 eBay 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 and images of fallen soldiers, along with a super-imposed political message.

"While political speech is rightfully protected by the state and federal constitutions, I belief 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 similar 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.

Senate Bill 1125 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."

Orie's bill now goes to the House for consideration.