Red Star Service Banner Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Bergman, Jack [R-MI-1]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 5, 2026
Bottom line
The bill establishes a new national commemorative symbol to honor those who died by suicide in military or first responder service and support their families, without creating new federal spending or benefits.
What it actually does
This bill officially designates the Red Star Service Banner as a commemorative symbol to recognize and remember service members, veterans, and first responders who have died by suicide, and to acknowledge the enduring sacrifice of their families. It specifies the banner's design and outlines various public and private locations where it may be displayed, including residences, veterans service organizations, public buildings, and community spaces. The bill also clarifies that this designation does not create eligibility for federal benefits or require the Department of Veterans Affairs to certify individual eligibility for display.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that establishing the Red Star Service Banner provides a much-needed symbol of recognition and remembrance for service members, veterans, and first responders who have died by suicide, and offers a tangible way to acknowledge the profound sacrifice of their surviving families. They contend that official recognition can help destigmatize suicide within these communities, foster greater public awareness, and encourage support for mental health initiatives by drawing attention to this critical issue.
Opponents contend
Critics may argue that while symbolic recognition is valuable, the bill does not directly address the root causes of suicide among service members, veterans, and first responders, and that resources dedicated to awareness campaigns might be better utilized for direct mental health services or prevention programs. Some might also express concern about the potential for misinterpretation of the symbol, or question the scope of its application.
The bill is very short and clear, allowing for a quick and comprehensive understanding of its provisions.
Section 2, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code, by adding new Section 905(a)
Designation of Red Star Service Banner
This provision officially designates the Red Star Service Banner as a commemorative symbol. Its purpose is twofold: to recognize and remember service members and veterans of the United States who have died by suicide, and to acknowledge the enduring sacrifice of their families. This formal designation elevates the banner to a status similar to other recognized service banners.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that this official designation provides a crucial symbol of remembrance and honor for those lost to suicide and their families, helping to destigmatize the issue and foster a sense of community support.
Critics contend
Opponents, while generally supportive of remembrance, might argue that symbolic gestures, without accompanying substantive mental health support or prevention programs, may not fully address the complex issue of suicide.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is between the value of symbolic recognition and the need for direct, tangible support for mental health and suicide prevention. While the banner offers comfort and awareness, it doesn't directly fund services.
Section 2, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code, by adding new Section 905(b), (c), (d), (e)
Banner Design, Display, and Public Awareness
This section specifies the design of the Red Star Service Banner: a white field with a blue border and a single red star centered, to be approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. It also details various locations where the banner may be displayed, including private residences of immediate family, veterans service organizations, workplaces, public buildings (Federal, State, Tribal, local), and community spaces. Furthermore, it allows the banner to be displayed alongside other official service banners and authorizes the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs and Defense to promote public awareness.
Section 2, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code, by adding new Section 905(f)
Inclusion of First Responders
This provision expands the scope of the Red Star Service Banner to also honor the memory of first responders who have died by suicide. It specifically includes firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical personnel, allowing the banner to be displayed in locations relevant to their families and workplaces, mirroring the provisions for service members and veterans.
Section 2, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code, by adding new Section 905(g)
Rule of Construction Regarding Benefits and Legal Status
This section clarifies that the establishment of the Red Star Service Banner does not create eligibility for, or entitlement to, any benefits, programs, or assistance administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs or any other Federal agency. It also states that the VA is not required to certify individual eligibility for displaying the banner, and that the banner's recognition under this chapter does not create any new legal status or classification beyond its commemorative purpose.
This 'Rule of Construction' explicitly states that the Red Star Service Banner designation does not establish eligibility for any federal benefits or programs, nor does it require the Department of Veterans Affairs to certify individual eligibility for displaying the banner. It also clarifies that it creates no new legal status beyond commemorative recognition.
Section 2, amending Chapter 9 of title 36, United States Code, by adding new Section 905(g)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to include clarifying language that limits the scope or prevents unintended interpretations, rather than being evasive. It ensures the bill's intent is precisely understood.
Case for: Supporters argue that this provision is crucial for managing expectations among the public and preventing the creation of unfunded mandates or new administrative burdens for federal agencies. It ensures the bill's focus remains purely on symbolic recognition.
Case against: Critics might argue that by explicitly disclaiming any benefits, the bill highlights its purely symbolic nature, potentially underscoring a perceived lack of substantive support for affected families beyond recognition.
Estimated impact: Prevents potential future claims for benefits or administrative costs associated with eligibility certification, ensuring the bill's fiscal neutrality.
This section explicitly states that no additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Act's amendments, and that all activities must be carried out using amounts already made available to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Section 3
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for bills intended to be budget-neutral. It's a critical fiscal detail, but its placement is typical for such administrative clauses.
Case for: Proponents highlight this provision as evidence of fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the symbolic recognition provided by the bill does not create new financial burdens on taxpayers or require new appropriations.
Case against: Critics might argue that relying solely on existing VA funds for public awareness campaigns could strain already allocated resources for direct services, potentially diverting funds from other critical programs.
Estimated impact: Ensures the bill has a neutral impact on the federal deficit by prohibiting new appropriations and requiring use of existing VA funds.