By Bob Katzen

This bill would amend a current section of the constitution that gives Quakers the option to change the oath a person must take upon taking office from the current: “I do solemnly swear, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the commonwealth of Massachusetts and will support the constitution thereof.

So help me God.” Currently Quakers are allowed to change the word “swear” to “affirm” and the words “So help me God” with “under the pains and penalties of perjury.” The amendment would give that same option to anyone, not just Quakers.

“The state constitution only allows people of Quaker faith to have the option of affirming their oath,” said sponsor Rep. Mindy Domb (D-Amherst). “The amendment would remove the Quaker eligibility [only] for this option. Federal officials, including the President, a U.S. Representative and a U.S. Senator all have the opportunity to choose to swear or affirm their oaths of office.”