OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation authored by Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, authorizing the placement of a Gold Star Families Memorial Monument on the Oklahoma State Capitol grounds has been signed into law. 

House Bill 4486 allows the State Capitol Preservation Commission to work with private entities to design, construct and place the monument near the Capitol Arch at no cost to taxpayers.

"Families who have lost a loved one in service deserve to be recognized in a meaningful way," Townley said. "I've had the chance to hear from families who live with that loss, and it stays with you. This gives them a place at our Capitol that reflects that sacrifice and honors it for years to come."

The Gold Star Families Memorial Monument honors families who have lost a loved one in military service and is part of a national effort led by the Woody Williams Foundation. The monument will be privately funded and located on the Capitol grounds alongside other military tributes.

The memorial will feature four pillars representing homeland, family, patriot and sacrifice, with imagery designed to reflect Oklahoma communities and military service.

Townley said placing the monument at the Capitol ensures it will be accessible to all Oklahomans and visitors, creating an opportunity for reflection, education and recognition of those who have given their lives in service to the country.

Sen. Kelly Hines, R-Edmond, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, is the Senate author of the bill.