
The All-American Flag Act
Well, folks, it seems our esteemed lawmakers have finally decided to wave the red, white, and blue in the face of foreign flag manufacturers. In a move that’s as American as apple pie (and hopefully not made in China), Congress has passed the All-American Flag Act. It’s about time we stopped outsourcing our patriotism, don’t you think? But let’s unfurl this story and see what it’s really all about.
The Legislative Journey
The All-American Flag Act, introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), has successfully made its way through both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This bipartisan effort aims to ensure that all American flags purchased by federal agencies are 100% made in the USA.
Currently, only 50% of materials for federally purchased flags are required to be sourced within the U.S. This new legislation seeks to change that, mandating that every thread, every star, and every stripe of Old Glory be born and bred on American soil.
Last week, I voted for the All-American Flag Act, to require the federal government to only buy flags completely produced & manufactured in the U.S.
This is a bipartisan, commonsense way to support the workers responsible for creating our most cherished symbol🇺🇸
— Mike Quigley (@RepMikeQuigley) July 29, 2024
The Importance of American-Made Flags
“The American flag serves as a symbol of our identity, resolve, and values as one people. To honor its significance, the federal government should only use flags entirely manufactured in the United States.”
This quote from the legislation’s supporters encapsulates the heart of the matter. Our flag is more than just a piece of cloth; it’s a symbol of our nation’s identity and values. By ensuring it’s made entirely in the USA, we’re not just supporting American jobs and manufacturers – we’re reinforcing the very essence of what the flag represents.
In 2017, the U.S. imported approximately 10 million American flags, with a staggering 99.5% coming from China. Let that sink in for a moment. Our ultimate symbol of American pride and freedom, mass-produced in a country that doesn’t exactly share our values of liberty and democracy. The All-American Flag Act aims to put an end to this ironic situation, at least when it comes to flags purchased by federal agencies.
Economic Impact and Implementation
The economic implications of this act are significant. In 2015, U.S. imports of American flags were valued at $4.4 million, with $4 million coming from China. By redirecting this spending to domestic manufacturers, the act aims to bolster American industry and create jobs right here at home.
It’s worth noting that the president can issue a waiver for this requirement if necessary to comply with international trade agreements. However, the spirit of the law is clear: American flags should be made by American hands on American soil.
Senator Brown first introduced this legislation in 2011, showing that sometimes good things come to those who wait – and keep pushing for what’s right. It’s a testament to the persistence required in the legislative process and the importance of staying true to one’s principles.
As we wave our flags this coming Fourth of July, we can take pride in knowing that more of them will truly be all-American. And who knows? Maybe this is just the beginning of a broader movement to bring manufacturing back to our shores. After all, if we can make our flags here, what’s stopping us from making everything else?
Sources
American flags should be born in the USA now, too, Congress says
The Congress shall have power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States
Congress passes proposal requiring all American flags bought by the feds to be made in the USA
American flags should be born in the USA now, too, Congress says
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