“Officially” Massachusetts

Ahhh. Massachusetts. So many stereotypes, so little time. While outsiders may associate Massachusetts with its iconic accent or inclement weather, in reality there are so many other things that make us special. And of course, we want to share them.

Each legislative session includes a number of bills that establish official symbols of the state. In past years, the legislature has declared Cod as the state fish, the Boston Terrier as the state dog, cranberry juice as the state beverage, and so much more. This legislative session, everything from cupcakes to dinosaurs were under consideration.

The full list of these “official” bills are shown below:

• Official Dinosaur of the Commonwealth: Podokesaurus Holyokensis (SB2028/HB3190)

• Official Shellfish of the Commonwealth: Quahog (SB2099)

• Official Amphibian of the Commonwealth: Blue-Spotted Salamander (HB4189/SD2766)

• Official Freshwater Fish of the Commonwealth: Eastern Brook Trout (HB4227)

• Official Butterfly of the Commonwealth: Monarch Butterfly (Danaus Plexippus) (SB2046)

• Official Turtle of the Commonwealth: Blanding Turtle (HB3164)

• Official Mushroom of the Commonwealth: “Giant Puffball” (SB2060)

• Official Candy of the Commonwealth: Charleston Chew (HB3219)

• Official Seasoning of the Commonwealth: Bell’s Seasoning (HB3210)

• Official Cupcake of the Commonwealth: Boston Cream Pie Cupcake (HB3221)

• Official Rock Song of the Commonwealth: “Roadrunner” - The Modern Lovers (HB3193)

• Official County Song of the Commonwealth: “14 Counties of Massachusetts” - 3rd & 4th Grade Classes of Our Lady’s Academy (HB3235)

• Official Patriotic Song of the Commonwealth: “Here’s to America” - Louis & Florenzo DiDonato (HB3149)

Often, these bills are filed on behalf of the public — usually schools. However, even with little hearts and minds observing, this does not guarantee these symbols will be codified in state law.

Intrigued to see which symbols will make the cut? InstaTrac can help! If you don’t currently have a MassTrac subscription, reach out for a free trial! Email info@instatrac.com for more information.