Bill Would Outlaw National Anthem Embellishment


(Indianapolis, Ind.) - A bill filed in Indiana’s legislature would demand that the national anthem be sung by the book.

 

State Senator Vaneta Becker (R-Evansville) wrote the bill that would require the Star Spangled Banner, when sung in public, be done in its entirety and without embellishment.

 

The bill won’t target off-key singers, just those who change up the anthem.

 

According to the bill, it "provides that all public schools, charter schools, schools receiving public scholarships, and institutions of higher education must enter into an agreement with any person or group performing the national anthemat any event sponsored by the school that is open to the public to ensure standards for the performance."

 

The Indiana Commission on Higher Education would be charged with developing acceptable words and accompanying music for the anthem. The proposal would also require schools to keep a record of each national anthem performance on file for two years.

 

A violation would land a fine of $25 for the performing individual.

 

Baker’s proposal was heard by a Senate committee on Wednesday, but there’s been no vote on the bill yet.

More from Local News

Events

NWS: Tornados Confirmed in Aurora, Franklin Co., Florence, Carroll Co.

Damage surveys for June 18 were recently conducted and released.

INDOT Makes Changes at Busy Lawrenceburg Intersections

The changes occurred at Doughty Road and Tanners Creek Drive.

Water Tie-in Project Impacting Water Pressure for Greendale Residents

Some residents may experience low water pressure or a temporary loss of water service while the work is completed.

Twenty-one Softball Stars Named to 2026 EIAC All-Conference Team

Greensburg was the conference champion (12-1)

EIAC Names 2026 Baseball All-Conference Team

Twenty-two players earned the honor.

On Air

John Conlee Common Man 13:47
Zac Brown Band All Alright 13:41
Carrie Underwood All-American Girl 13:37
Chris Young Young Love And Saturday Nights 13:34