Wyoming group votes to fund restoration of Morris statue

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) – A Wyoming state group has approved a motion recommending lawmakers fund the restoration of a statue commemorating one of the state’s historic women.

The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports the Capitol Building Restoration Oversight Group voted to fund restoration of a Esther Hobart Morris statue.

Morris was appointed the nation’s first female justice of the peace in 1870.

Officials say the statue in the capitol building extension has needed restoration after being struck by cars.

The Wyoming State Museum director says the statue will need to be moved out of the state for the work.