NC H356

Amends G.S. 14-132 to make injuring statues or monuments in public places, including moving or removing them, a misdemeanor offense that can be prosecuted by the Attorney General or district attorneys.

Establishes that violations involving monuments subject to G.S. 100-2.1 are Class A1 misdemeanors with fines of $500 to $1,000 and restitution for repair or restoration costs; other violations remain Class 2 misdemeanors.

Requires the State or political subdivisions to restore injured monuments to their original condition and location within 90 days, with possible extensions from the North Carolina Historical Commission if restoration proves impossible due to extent of injury.

Mandates law enforcement to take all necessary measures to prevent unlawful injury to monuments and arrest violators for prosecution by district attorneys or the Attorney General.

Allows the State or political subdivisions to pursue civil action against persons responsible for monument damage to recover repair and restoration costs.

Effective December 1, 2019, for offenses committed on or after that date.