Designates as the state music, the genre of rhythm and blues which contain elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music.

## Summary of the Bill

This bill proposes to officially designate rhythm and blues (R&B) as the state music of Rhode Island. Specifically, it describes this genre as a style of rhythm and blues that incorporates elements of pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. If passed, R&B would join other official state symbols, such as the state bird, state flower, and state motto, as a formally recognized emblem of Rhode Island.

The bill is largely symbolic in nature and would not impose any new regulations, taxes, or requirements on Rhode Island residents. It would simply add a new category — state music — to the list of official state designations. Supporters of such measures typically argue that official state symbols help celebrate a state's cultural identity and heritage.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives and referred to the House Special Legislation Committee. The committee has recommended that the measure be held for further study, and a hearing or further consideration is scheduled for January 2026. No final vote has been taken at this time.