(Columbia-AP) May 21, 2003 - The House on Wednesday overrode a veto by Governor Mark Sanford on a bill creating a memorial for law enforcement officers on Statehouse grounds.

The House spent two days debating the veto before they overrode it 89-21.

Sanford in a statement released last Thursday says he vetoed the bill, because the $500,000 to build the monument could be better spent elsewhere in this tight budget year, "I believe the best way to honor these fallen heroes is to put that money directly toward pressing law enforcement needs in our state."

Some House members agreed, saying the money could pay troopers' salaries or buy equipment. They also argued that a monument to fallen officers already exists at the Criminal Justice Academy.

Other members say it's important to honor the officers on Statehouse grounds. Ways and Means Chairman Bobby Harrell says the money already was appropriated in last year's budget from a Public Safety Department building fund.

The State Law Enforcement Division is running a $2 million shortfall and the Corrections Department has a $29 million shortfall. Acting Columbia College Police Chief Howard Cook says he understands the governor's position, "I'd still like to see the monument go up, but I understand where the governor is coming from, because it is so tight. He's got a lot of restraints this year."

Sanford says he'll offer his full support for private fund-raising efforts for the memorial. Many of the memorials on State House grounds were paid for with private donations.

posted 2:29pm by Chris Rees