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HF 1172

Ursa Minor designated as official state constellation.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Clardy and 2 co-sponsors

Minnesota proposes designating Ursa Minor as the official state constellation to add to its existing state symbols.

Author added Clardy
#governmentaloperations-state
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Bill Summary · HF 1172

Legislative bill overview

HF 1172 proposes to designate Ursa Minor (the Little Bear constellation) as Minnesota's official state constellation. The bill has been introduced in the Minnesota House and is currently in the State Government Finance and Policy committee following its first reading.

Why is this important

State symbols serve as cultural and educational representations of a state's identity and values. This designation would add Ursa Minor to Minnesota's existing state symbols and could have minor educational value in promoting astronomy and celestial awareness among residents and students.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic relevance: Questions about why Ursa Minor specifically represents Minnesota's identity or heritage compared to other constellations or state symbols already in place
  • Legislative priority: Debate over whether symbolic designations merit legislative time and resources during budget sessions
  • Astronomical significance: Whether Ursa Minor has particular visibility, cultural, or historical significance to Minnesota compared to other constellations visible from the state

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

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