House Bill 661 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Danny GarrettRepresentative

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

State song; "Stars Fell on Alabama" designated

Summary

HB661 would designate 'Stars Fell on Alabama' as Alabama's official state song, replacing the current official song.

What This Bill Does

It amends the Alabama Code to designate 'Stars Fell on Alabama' as the official state song, superseding the previous designation of 'Alabama.' The bill notes the song's long association with Alabama and aims to honor the state's musical heritage and strengthen identity in civic, educational, and cultural settings. It specifies that the song must comply with intellectual property laws and that counties, municipalities, or state agencies may still recognize additional songs for ceremonial, educational, or tourism purposes. The act takes effect on October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects

• Alabama residents and visitors: the official state song will be 'Stars Fell on Alabama' used in state functions and relevant settings.
• State and local governments, schools, and cultural institutions: will recognize 'Stars Fell on Alabama' as the official state song and may continue to recognize other songs for ceremonial, educational, or tourism purposes.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 1-2-16 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to designate 'Stars Fell on Alabama' as the official state song, replacing the previous designation of 'Alabama'.
• Notes the song has long been associated with the state and designates it as the official state song.
• Includes an IP provision stating that nothing in the section authorizes reproduction or public performance in violation of intellectual property laws.
• Allows counties, municipalities, or state agencies to recognize additional songs for ceremonial, educational, or tourism purposes consistent with state law.
• Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano-2025-08-07 on Mar 31, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

State & State Officers