Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2075

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to the flying of the flag of the Commonwealth at half staff on state buildings and installations

Impact

The introduction of S2075 aims to solidify the state's recognition and remembrance of the September 11 attacks. By instituting a mandatory annual commemoration, the bill emphasizes the importance of historical memory and the collective mourning of the state. This change may influence local governance, as municipalities may align their practices with the state's formal directive, possibly fostering a unified approach to Remembrance Day observances across Massachusetts.

Summary

Bill S2075 proposes an amendment to Section 6A of Chapter 2 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, specifically concerning the flying of the Commonwealth flag at half-staff. The bill requires that each year on September 11, the flag be flown at half-staff until sunset to honor the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place on that date in 2001. This act would formalize a practice that serves to remember and pay tribute to those lost in the tragedy.

Contention

While the bill itself is relatively straightforward, it may invite discussions regarding the appropriateness of commemorative practices and the potential for further state guidance on such matters. Contention may arise if debates stem from differing views on the remembrance of such events and how public symbols, like flags, should be utilized. Nevertheless, the bill's primary aim remains to provide respect and honor to those who lost their lives during the attacks, minimizing political disputes around its necessity.

Companion Bills

MA S2036

Similar To Establishing the annual observance of September 11th Remembrance Day

Previously Filed As

MA SB00521

An Act Concerning Flying Flags At Half-staff.

MA SB1807

Relating to the display of flags at half-staff at state buildings to honor service members killed in action.

MA S2357

Relative to recognition of the "Honor and Remember" flag in the Commonwealth

MA H3498

Relative to recognition of the "Honor and Remember" flag in the Commonwealth

MA H3839

Relative to recognition of the "Honor and Remember" flag in the Commonwealth

MA S2500

Relative to recognition of the "Honor and Remember" flag in the Commonwealth

MA H3190

Relative to large-scale solar energy installations on agricultural or recreational land of the Commonwealth

MA H3526

Relative to large-scale solar energy installations on agricultural or recreational land of the Commonwealth

MA S2170

Updating the flag of the Commonwealth

MA H2683

Providing the next of kin of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty with the flags of the Commonwealth and the United States

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.