Expressing the sense of Congress that any public rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" must be performed as written by Francis Scott Key, in English.
- Bill Number
- H.Con.Res. 43
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Arts, Culture, Religion
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-07-10: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
- Last Updated
- 2025-07-25T12:16:39Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 43) expresses the non-binding opinion of Congress that public performances of "The Star-Spangled Banner," the U.S. national anthem, should use the original English lyrics written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. It aims to preserve the anthem's historical, cultural, and patriotic significance as a symbol of American unity and resilience.
Key Provisions
- Historical Context: Recognizes that the anthem was adopted by Congress in 1931 and highlights its original English lyrics as reflecting U.S. heritage during national challenges.
- Recommendations for Performance:
- Public renditions should follow Key's original English text to maintain historical integrity.
- Performances should use the original lyrics to uphold the anthem's role in fostering national unity.
- Performers and event organizers are encouraged to present the anthem in its original English form as a tribute to its importance.
- This is a "sense of Congress" resolution, meaning it states a collective view but does not create enforceable rules or penalties.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
None. As a concurrent resolution, it does not amend statutes, create new laws, or impose requirements. It builds on the 1931 law designating the anthem but adds no legal obligations, serving only as a symbolic statement.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens and Public Events: May influence cultural norms at events like sports games or ceremonies, encouraging traditional performances, but it has no direct effect since it is voluntary and non-binding.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal; agencies like those overseeing public events (e.g., military or national parks) might reference it informally, but it does not mandate changes in protocols.
- On International Relations: Negligible, as it focuses on domestic cultural preservation without addressing foreign policy.
Overall, impacts are largely symbolic, promoting patriotism without altering behaviors through force.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Performers and Artists: Singers, musicians, and entertainers at public events who may feel encouraged to adhere to the original lyrics.
- Event Organizers: Groups hosting ceremonies, such as sports leagues, schools, or government bodies, who could adopt the resolution's guidance for traditions.
- General Public: Americans attending or participating in anthem renditions, potentially fostering a sense of shared heritage.
- Congress and Lawmakers: Sponsors (e.g., Rep. Bice and co-sponsors) and committees (e.g., House Judiciary Committee) involved in its introduction and referral.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: Lacks binding authority, so it cannot restrict free expression. If interpreted as a mandate, it might raise First Amendment concerns (protecting free speech, including artistic interpretations), but its advisory nature avoids this.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to designate national symbols but does not infringe on individual rights, as it uses encouraging language rather than commands.
- Political: Represents a statement on cultural preservation and English-language traditions, potentially sparking debates on patriotism, immigration, or artistic freedom. It reflects bipartisan sponsorship but could be seen as symbolic politics amid broader discussions on national identity.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Bice, Stephanie I. [R-OK-5]
Cosponsors (11)
Rep. Rogers, Mike D. [R-AL-3], Rep. Moore, Barry [R-AL-1], Rep. Feenstra, Randy [R-IA-4], Rep. Murphy, Gregory F. [R-NC-3], Rep. Miller-Meeks, Mariannette [R-IA-1], Rep. Downing, Troy [R-MT-2], Rep. Houchin, Erin [R-IN-9], Rep. Carter, Earl L. "Buddy" [R-GA-1], Rep. Rouzer, David [R-NC-7], Rep. Norman, Ralph [R-SC-5], Rep. Van Orden, Derrick [R-WI-3]
Recent Actions
- 2025-07-10: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
- 2025-07-10: Submitted in House
- 2025-07-10: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing the sense of Congress that any public rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" must be performed as written by Francis Scott Key, in English. — issued 2025-07-10 — PDF (2 pages)