summary
Introduced
12/27/2024
12/27/2024
In Committee
01/15/2025
01/15/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/16/2025
06/16/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An act relating to the display of flags by governmental entities; creating s. 256.045, F.S.; defining the term "governmental entity"; prohibiting governmental entities from erecting or displaying certain flags; requiring governmental entities to remain neutral in certain circumstances; providing applicability; requiring that a United States flag displayed by governmental entities be in a certain position relative to other flags; authorizing a current or retired member of the United States Armed Forces or the National Guard to use reasonable force to prevent the desecration, destruction, or removal of the United States flag or to replace such flag to a position of prominence; providing an exception; providing an effective date.
AI Summary
This bill creates a new section in Florida law that defines and regulates flag displays by governmental entities, including public schools, colleges, and universities. The bill prohibits these entities from displaying flags that represent political viewpoints, such as those related to partisan politics, race, sexual orientation, gender, or political ideology, and requires them to remain neutral. The legislation mandates that if a governmental entity displays the United States flag, it must be positioned prominently and superior to any other flags. The bill also grants active or retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard the authority to use reasonable force to prevent desecration or removal of the U.S. flag, or to restore it to a position of prominence, with an exception for direct orders from law enforcement officers. The bill does not restrict private individuals' free speech rights or prevent the display of flags authorized by general law, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Died in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee (on 06/16/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/75 |
| BillText | https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/75/BillText/Filed/PDF |
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