Louisiana Senate Bill SB124

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/21
• Refer: 3/30/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/27/21
• Engrossed: 5/3/21
• Refer: 5/4/21
• Report Pass: 5/13/21
• Enrolled: 6/3/21
• Chaptered: 6/14/21
• Passed: 6/14/21

Caption

Requires the playing or singing of the national anthem prior to certain athletic contests. (8/1/21)

Impact

If enacted, SB124 will directly impact athletic events conducted in venues that receive state funding. This means that all competitive events held in such venues will have to include the national anthem in their programming, marking a significant shift in how local and state-sponsored sports events are conducted. The bill not only modifies the existing standards for athletic competitions but may also influence local policies and the operational guidelines of sports organizations that receive public funding.

Summary

Senate Bill 124 requires that the national anthem be played or sung prior to certain competitive athletic events that are held in venues partially or wholly funded by the state or its political subdivisions. This legislative measure aims to establish a formal protocol surrounding state-sponsored athletic competitions, promoting national pride and respect for the flag during public events. Supporters of the bill argue that it fosters a sense of unity and patriotism among participants and spectators, reinforcing respect within the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB124 has been generally supportive within the legislature, as evidenced by the voting outcome, which showed strong bipartisan approval with a final vote of 33 in favor and only 1 against. Proponents see this legislation as a positive step towards instilling patriotism, while a few dissenters, though minimal, raised concerns about the enforcement and implications of mandating the anthem, suggesting it may restrict local autonomy over event programming.

Contention

Despite its overall support, the bill has sparked limited debate regarding the potential overreach of state mandates into local governance. Critics question whether such an obligation should be enforced universally across all sports events, arguing that it may not align with the preferences or practices of all communities or sports organizations. The discourse emphasizes a balance between promoting national symbols and respecting local traditions and preferences in event organization.