Senator Tom Cotton introduces bill to enforce mandatory minimum prison sentences for vandals who deface statues on federal property, following a pro-Hamas rally in Washington, D.C.
Key Points
Senator Cotton's STATUE Act aims to deter vandalism of statues on public property
Pro-Hamas demonstrators defaced statues in Washington, D.C. during a recent rally
The bill proposes fines and mandatory prison sentences for offenders
Pros
Enforces stricter punishment for vandalism of statues on federal property
Sends a message against defacing public monuments
Cons
May be seen as infringing on freedom of speech rights
Could lead to disproportionate sentencing for minor offenses