Bill Sponsors
Bennett, Fogarty, Cortvriend, Donovan, Fellela, McNamara, Azzinaro, Speakman, Boylan, and Read
Committee
House Special Legislation
Summary
Select
This legislation officially designates "rhythm and blues" as the state music of Rhode Island. The bill amends the General Laws related to "State Emblems" to include this new designation. It specifically defines rhythm and blues for the purpose of this statute as a music genre that incorporates elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Sponsor
Analysis
Pros for Progressives
- Recognizes and honors a musical genre deeply rooted in African American history and culture, promoting inclusivity and cultural representation within state symbols.
- Serves as a symbolic gesture that validates the artistic contributions of diverse communities, potentially fostering a sense of belonging for marginalized groups.
- Encourages the celebration of arts and culture without imposing financial burdens on the poor or working class.
Cons for Progressives
- Represents a purely symbolic act that does not address material conditions such as poverty, housing instability, or systemic racism faced by the communities that created the music.
- Diverts legislative time and attention away from critical social justice reforms and urgent public service needs.
- The definition of the genre provided in the bill is broad and commercialized, potentially commodifying a cultural art form rather than authentically honoring its roots.
Pros for Conservatives
- Involves no new government spending or tax increases, adhering to the principle of fiscal responsibility.
- Imposes no new regulations, mandates, or restrictions on businesses or individuals, preserving personal and corporate freedom.
- Celebrates a cultural aspect of the state without expanding the size or scope of the government bureaucracy.
Cons for Conservatives
- Represents a frivolous use of legislative time and resources when the government should be focused on serious economic and public safety issues.
- Sets a precedent for government involvement in cultural definitions, which arguably lies outside the proper scope of limited government.
- The broad definition of the genre could be seen as an arbitrary legislative attempt to redefine established artistic categories.
Constitutional Concerns
None Likely
Impact Overview
Groups Affected
- Residents of Rhode Island
- Musicians
- Music Educators
- Historians
- Tourism Industry
Towns Affected
All
Cost to Taxpayers
None
Revenue Generated
None
BillBuddy Impact Ratings
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Environmental Impact
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Privacy Impact
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Bill Status
Current Status
Held
Comm Passed
Floor Passed
Law
History
• 01/14/2026 Introduced, referred to House Special Legislation
Bill Text
SECTION 1. Chapter 42-4 of the General Laws entitled "State Emblems" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:
42-4-24. State music.
The music genre of rhythm and blues is hereby designated as the state music. For purposes of this section, rhythm and blues is defined as music which contains elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop and electronic music.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.
42-4-24. State music.
The music genre of rhythm and blues is hereby designated as the state music. For purposes of this section, rhythm and blues is defined as music which contains elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop and electronic music.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.