Flag Protection Act of 1997
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (8 May 1997): Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
What this bill does
This bill, the Flag Protection Act of 1997, would create federal laws to protect the United States flag. It would establish penalties for destroying or damaging a flag with the intent to provoke violence, or for stealing and then damaging a U.S. flag that belongs to the government or another person on federal land. The definition of a U.S. flag for these purposes would include any item resembling a flag to a reasonable observer.
The bill affects individuals who might engage in these specific actions involving the U.S. flag. It also clarifies that this federal law would not prevent states from prosecuting similar offenses under their own laws. Additionally, Congress would express its view that states should enact similar prohibitions.
This legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 8, 1997, and was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. No further action or status beyond this referral is indicated in the provided material.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
8 May 1997
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 1556 do?
- This bill, the Flag Protection Act of 1997, would create federal laws to protect the United States flag. It would establish penalties for destroying or damaging a flag with the intent to provoke violence, or for stealing and then damaging a U.S. flag that belongs to the government or another person on federal land. The definition of a U.S. flag for these purposes would include any item resembling a flag to a reasonable observer. The bill affects individuals who might engage in these specific actions involving the U.S. flag. It also clarifies that this federal law would not prevent states from prosecuting similar offenses under their own laws. Additionally, Congress would express its view that states should enact similar prohibitions. This legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 8, 1997, and was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. No further action or status beyond this referral is indicated in the provided material.
- Has H.R. 1556 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 1556. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 1556?
- H.R. 1556 was sponsored by Rep. Boucher, Rick [D-VA-9] (D-VA), with 9 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 1556?
- Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. (8 May 1997).
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