INDIANAPOLIS -
Rules for singing the national anthem are hitting a sour note with some, because of a bill that could have performers facing a fine.
Recent Indiana school controversies, with students putting their twist on the anthem, have some lawmakers seeking harmony in the way the anthem is performed at school events.
The bill filed by Republican state Sen. Vaneta Becker of Evansville calls for the state education department to establish rules on acceptable performances.
Becker tells The Indianapolis Star that she started working on the proposal after a constituent said she thought a school program in which the words of "The Star-Spangled Banner" were changed was disrespectful.
She says the bill isn't aimed at off-key singers, only those who make intentional changes. It sets a possible $25 fine.
"I've heard some bad ones and I've heard some good," said one fan Friday night.
He wants the anthem sung respectfully. But in 70 years around school sports, he doesn't want a law.
"It's putting too much pressure on the schools. Really, on the sports, too," the man said.
"Most schools do try to make sure it is done respectfully. My personal belief is we have more important things to worry about," said Broad Ripple Athletic Director Mike Hannan.
Fan reaction at high school games Friday night was mixed.
"It is government power to me. It's being taken out of hand," said Michael Montgomery.
"If the state mandates a certain way, I guess they should have certain people sing it," said Victoria Vorhis.
Let students experiment, Vorhis says, but a composer says the anthem is different.
"It's a song that needs to be treated with respect, so maintain the melody. Don't mess with it," said Darrell Day.
Christian Peek sang traditionally before Broad Ripple's home game Friday night.
"I don't think it should always be a set standard, because you are limiting what the performer can do," Peek said.
The bill probably doesn't violate the Constitution, but ACLU of Indiana lawyer Kenneth Falk says he doesn't know why legislators would want to specify how any song should be sung.
The bill would affect all schools getting public money, even colleges.
