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1999 SESSION
980866120Whereas, the Commonwealth has no effective official song because "Carry Me Back To Old Virginia," declared the State song in 1940, has become so controversial that it is no longer possible or appropriate to use the song; and
Whereas, the official song should reference the rich history and tradition of the Commonwealth and invoke images of the natural and scenic beauty its citizens celebrate; and
Whereas, the Commonwealth requires an official song that can be sung on all occasions with pride and affection; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That "Oh! We Hail Thee Old Virginia," lyrics and music by Ronald Stoots, be designated as the official song of the Commonwealth, the words of which are as follows:
Chorus:
Chorus:
Chorus:
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. That § 7.1-37 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:
§ 7.1-37. Official song.
A. The song "Carry Me Back to Old Virginia," by James A. Bland, as set out in the House Joint Resolution 10, adopted by the General Assembly of Virginia at the Session of 1940, is declared to be the official song emeritus of the Commonwealth.
B. The song "Oh! We Hail Thee Old Virginia," by Ronald Stoots as set out in the 1998 Acts of Assembly, is declared to be the official song of the Commonwealth.