Bill > H2666

This bill preserves and formally recognizes the special status of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts, a historic military organization. The bill amends Chapter 33 of the General Laws to explicitly include the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company as part of the state's active or organized militia, alongside other notable military units like the National Lancers and the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment. It grants the company specific privileges, including the right to retain its ancient organizational structure, constitution, and by-laws, as long as these remain consistent with state and federal laws. The company is authorized to maintain its distinctive uniforms and will serve as a ceremonial honor guard for the commander-in-chief at state functions, operating under the commander-in-chief's direction. The bill also removes a previous section of law (section 132) that was likely redundant or conflicting with these new provisions. Fundamentally, this legislation codifies the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company's longstanding role and traditions within Massachusetts' military framework, ensuring its continued recognition and ceremonial significance.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2666