One Flag for All Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Harshbarger, Diana [R-TN-1]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 13, 2025
Bottom line
This bill aims to standardize flag displays at federal public buildings by restricting non-U.S. flags, while carving out specific exceptions for military, diplomatic, historical, and local flags.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits the flying, draping, or other display of any flag other than the flag of the United States on the exterior of covered public buildings or in public-accessible interior areas, with specific exceptions. The exceptions include flags for POW/MIA, Hostage and Wrongful Detainees, visiting diplomats, State flags in a Member of Congress's office, Armed Forces flags, certain historical U.S. flags, public safety flags, national observance flags, religious organization flags at military installations, Federal agency flags, Indian Tribe flags, and State/local jurisdiction flags.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill promotes national unity and respect for the U.S. flag as the primary symbol of federal institutions, ensuring a consistent message at public buildings. They may contend that it prevents the display of flags that could be divisive or inappropriate for federal property, reinforcing a singular national identity.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that the bill is overly restrictive, potentially limiting expressions of diversity, cultural heritage, or support for various causes that do not detract from national unity. They may contend that some of the prohibited flags represent important communities or values that should be acknowledged on public property.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy read for any interested party.
Section 2(a)
Prohibition on Display of Non-U.S. Flags
This provision mandates that only the flag of the United States may be flown, draped, or otherwise displayed on the exterior of federal public buildings or in areas of such buildings that are fully accessible to the public, such as entryways or hallways. Its purpose is to establish a uniform standard for flag displays at federal facilities, ensuring that the national flag is the sole primary symbol displayed.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision ensures that federal public buildings exclusively display the national flag, fostering a sense of national unity and respect for the country's primary symbol. They contend it prevents the display of flags that could be seen as divisive or inappropriate for federal property.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue this prohibition is overly broad, potentially stifling expressions of diversity, cultural identity, or support for various causes that do not inherently undermine national unity. They may contend it removes symbols important to specific communities from public view.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for national symbolic unity at federal facilities against the potential for restricting diverse expressions or acknowledgments of specific groups or causes.
Section 2(b)
Permitted Flag Displays
This section outlines twelve specific categories of flags that are exempt from the general prohibition, allowing their display. These exceptions include flags for POW/MIA, Hostage and Wrongful Detainees, visiting diplomats, State flags in a Member of Congress's office, Armed Forces flags, historical U.S. flags (e.g., Betsy Ross, Gadsden), public safety flags, national observance flags (e.g., 9/11 Memorial), religious organization flags at military installations, Federal agency flags, Indian Tribe flags, and State/local jurisdiction flags.