This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2006, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The House passed a resolution Wednesday showing its support for white crosses the Utah Highway Patrol Association places as roadside memorials for fallen troopers. American Atheists Inc. filed a federal lawsuit on Dec. 1 saying the crosses violate the Constitution's prohibition on government supported religious speech and violates state rules about signs near a right of way. Utah's law enforcement community has responded with outrage. And Rep. Paul Ray, R-Clearfield, wanted to show them that lawmakers are on their side. Rep. Bud Bowman, R-Cedar City, a former trooper, said he personally knew 10 of the 14 troopers who have died on duty and he stands by the standard white crosses. "This is a memorial to the slain officers," he said. "In no way is it a religious symbol." Rep. Jackie Biskupski, D-Salt Lake City, was the sole dissenter in the 66-1 vote. The 12-foot-tall steel crosses were first used in 1998 and memorialize 14 troopers who have died in the line of duty since 1931. - Matt Canham
