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Committee approves Charlie Kirk remembrance day after heated testimony
Summary
HB 125 would establish an annual day of remembrance tied to Charlie Kirk's assassination; supporters said it condemns political violence and protects free speech, while opponents argued Kirk’s record and rhetoric make a state commemoration inappropriate; the committee reported the bill favorably, 13-5.
Representative Benaroche and Representative Weinberger presented HB 125 as a legislative response to political violence: "This bill is about what happens when violence replaces debate," the sponsor said, framing the measure as a condemnation of violence and a defense of free expression.
Public testimony was sharply divided. Opponents — including civil‑rights and community organizations — urged the committee not to memorialize a partisan, polarizing figure and questioned the selection of Kirk for a state‑level remembrance day. "Charlie Kirk referred to Dr. Martin Luther King as an awful person," a critic said, arguing that state recognition sends a message about whose values are elevated.
Supporters, including family and conservative organizations, described threats and harassment they said followed the assassination and urged the legislature to mark the violence against a speaker. "He was not a racist. He was not a transphobe," a proponent said.
A technical amendment clearing enacting language was adopted. After extensive debate and public testimony, the committee reported HB 125 favorably by roll call, 13 ayes and 5 nays.
Next steps: The bill will advance to the House with the committee substitute; continued debate on whether to use individual commemorations or broader 'Free Speech' recognition is likely on the floor.
