Bill > SCR73

This concurrent resolution memorializes the United States Congress to propose a constitutional amendment that would grant Congress and state governments the power to prohibit the physical desecration of the American flag. The resolution provides extensive historical context, emphasizing the flag's significance in various pivotal moments of American history, including the War of Independence, World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, and space exploration. It argues that the Supreme Court has incorrectly interpreted free speech protections to allow flag desecration, and contends that the right to free speech was never intended to permit disrespecting the national symbol. The resolution notes that while the House of Representatives has previously passed similar resolutions proposing a constitutional amendment to ban flag desecration, the Senate has consistently defeated such efforts. By passing this memorial, the New Jersey legislature is formally requesting that Congress take action to protect the American flag through a constitutional amendment, and directs that copies of the resolution be sent to key federal government officials, including the Vice President, Speaker of the House, and New Jersey's congressional representatives.

Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SCR73