On the eve of Memorial Day, the Massachusetts State Senate has adopted a measure filed by Sen. Robert L. Hedlund that significantly toughens the penalties for vandalizing or desecrating veterans’ gravestones, memorials or other markers.

The measure comes after vandals recently caused significant damage to veteran’s memorials in Weymouth and Kingston.  

“Vandalizing or desecrating a marker dedicated to the memory and honor of a person who laid their life on the line for this country is unconscionable, and should be subject to substantially harsher penalties than merely spray-painting a wall,” Sen. Hedlund said.

The Fiscal Year 2011 budget amendment, which was approved unanimously, increases the fine for the crime from $1,500 to $3,000, or six times the value of the damaged property, whichever is greater. In addition, the vandal would now also have to complete a minimum of 500 hours of court-approved community service.

“Our veterans deserve our utmost gratitude and respect, not only in life but also in death,” Sen. Hedlund. “By increasing these penalties, we are better reflecting the outrageousness of the crime, and the amount of restitution needed to repay our community, and the memory of our veterans.”

Earlier this month, vandals knocked over and damaged a 500-pound statue within the World War II memorial  located at The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at Immaculate Conception Parish in Weymouth. Last Veterans Day, a group of Kingston teenagers tipped over 91 gravestones, including many that belonged to veterans, as well as a Veterans of Foreign Wars memorial.

“By toughening these penalties, hopefully vandals will think twice before they engage in these senseless and malicious acts,” Sen. Hedlund said. “And if not, maybe they’ll figure it out while completing 500 hours of community service.”

A final vote on the Senate budget bill is expected this week. A House and Senate conference committee will then work out a final compromise budget bill.