State Sen. Gerald Allen (R-Tuscaloosa) recently proposed a constitutional amendment for the 2024 regular legislative session to require education boards to adopt policies mandating a once-weekly broadcasting of "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Senate Bill 2 (SB2) would require each local board of education to adopt a policy requiring all public schools to broadcast at least the first stanza of "The Star-Spangled Banner" once a week at minimum.
The rule would allow any recording of the first stanza of "The Star-Spangled Banner" archived within the Library of Congress and available on the Library of Congress website.
"For over 100 years, The Star-Spangled Banner has served to inspire generations of patriotic Americans, and it is imperative that students have exposure to this history and inspiration," the bill reads.
Alternatively, a school board may adopt a policy allowing, during school hours, for the performance of the first stanza of "The Star-Spangled Banner" from original sheet music archived within the Library of Congress and available on its website by a school-sanctioned band program, choral program, vocal group or vocalist.
Allen filed a similar bill in 2023, which died on the vine after passing through the Senate State Government Committee.
The 2024 session is slated to convene on Feb. 6, 2024. Constitutional amendments require a popular vote, appearing on all state ballots in a regular election.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
