WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 1633

An Act designating the song “Roadrunner” as the official rock song of the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David Linsky

Designates the song Roadrunner as the official rock song of Massachusetts to recognize its cultural heritage, with no funds or enforcement.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1633

Summary: House Bill HD 1633 – Official Rock Song Designation

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill seeks to designate the song “Roadrunner” as the official rock song of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
  • The designation is symbolic, recognizing the song as a matter of state cultural heritage and identity.

Key Provisions

  • Legislative text proposes adding a new provision to Chapter 2 of the General Laws.
  • Section 61 would state:
    • The song “Roadrunner,” with words and music by Jonathan Richman, as recorded by Jonathan Richman and The Modern Lovers, shall be the official rock song of the Commonwealth.
  • No accompanying appropriation or funding is specified in the bill.
  • The designation is purely declaratory and does not create new regulatory requirements or penalties.

Who and What Would Be Affected

  • State government and agencies: The designation would provide an official state song for potential use in ceremonies, promotional materials, and cultural events. It does not compel agencies to use the song, nor does it authorize new expenditures.
  • Residents and cultural/savvy institutions: Public schools, libraries, cultural organizations, and event organizers may reference the official designation in programming and recognitions.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: November 29, 2025 (as per the bill information provided).
  • Filed: January 15, 2025 (House Docket No. 3383) with Rep. David Paul Linsky (5th Middlesex).
  • The bill references a prior, similar filing in the 2023-2024 session (House Bill No. 3080), indicating ongoing interest in this designation.
  • Classification: Proposed bill; status not listed as enacted or signed into law.
  • Effective date: Not specified in the text; typical effect would be upon passage and enactment, unless a later date is provided in final language.

Additional Notes

  • The bill explicitly names the song and credits Jonathan Richman and The Modern Lovers.
  • If enacted, the designation would be a formal statement of Massachusetts’ recognition of the song within the Commonwealth’s cultural landscape, without creating fiscal obligations or regulatory changes.

This summary presents the bill as a declaratory designation within Massachusetts General Laws, emphasizing its cultural and symbolic purpose and outlining the procedural context for its consideration.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.