Bill filed to require Anthem to be played before sporting events at state funded facilities

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt filed legislation requiring the National Anthem to be played before all sporting events at state-funded facilities.

Hewitt said young people are losing the spirit of patriotism, and many don’t know the words to the anthem. She said this is an opportunity to reeducate the youth.

“And begin again to ensure that the National Anthem is still the song in our country and that they learn to respect the veterans who fought to protect our freedom,” said Hewitt.

Hewitt said the Anthem can be a unifying force and recalled her first trip to a professional sports game after 9/11.

“We didn’t just stand up and mumble through the words of the National Anthem, the entire stadium stood and we sang at the top of our lungs,” said Hewitt.

Some facilities in other states have begun discontinuing the Anthem before sporting events. Hewitt said she’s not aware any sports facilities in Louisiana have followed suit yet and does not expect that to happen in Louisiana. She noted it appears highly unlikely such a decision would be considered by Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson, who is widow to Navy veteran Tom Benson.