Lawmaker wants Penn State to report location, condition of Joe Paterno statue

Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Beaver/Lawrence) is attempting to force Penn State University to provide information regarding the location and condition of the Joe Paterno statue by tying it as an amendment to Senate Bill 1283, which would provide the school’s funding for the fiscal year.

Bernstine, who is a Penn State graduate, announced his attempt in a release on Tuesday which was reported first by the New Castle News.

“The statue symbolized Coach Paterno’s many outstanding contributions to Penn State on and off the gridiron,” Bernstine wrote. “His legacy should remain alive for people to view and reflect. Removing the statue does not serve the victims of Sandusky’s horrible crimes. The university is sending a mixed message by treating Paterno as a hero at the campus library where a plaque is displayed due to the millions of dollars he donated, but villain at the stadium where he coached the Nittany Lions to two national collegiate championships and five undefeated seasons.”

Bernstine said his amendment would require Penn State to report to the House and Senate the location of the statue, the method of storage and protection of the statue. He said the amendment would require the school to produce the report, and post it to the school’s website, in order to receive its annual funding.