Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SJR34

Introduced
6/14/23  

Caption

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States authorizing the Congress to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

Impact

The passage of SJR34 would mark a significant change in the legal landscape regarding the protections afforded to national symbols, particularly the American flag. If ratified, this amendment would empower Congress to enact laws against acts that desecrate the flag, potentially leading to a reassessment of the limits of free speech as protected by the First Amendment. It raises important questions about the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of national symbols, which have long been a contentious issue in American law and society.

Summary

SJR34 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution that authorizes Congress to prohibit the physical desecration of the American flag. The resolution seeks to secure a legal basis for Congress to take action against acts deemed disrespectful to the national flag, reinforcing its symbolism as a representation of the nation and its values. The initiative aligns with ongoing discussions regarding patriotism and the representation of national symbols in the context of free expression.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SJR34 have highlighted a division among lawmakers and the public regarding the nature of free speech and the treatment of national symbols. Proponents argue that the amendment is a necessary step to protect the integrity of the flag and what it represents, while opponents contend that it poses a threat to free expression. Critics emphasize that penalizing flag desecration may lead to broader implications for speech rights, fearing that it could set a precedent for limiting expression in other areas. This tension reflects a fundamental conflict between protecting national symbols and preserving the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution.

Companion Bills

US HJR73

Same As Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States giving Congress power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

Previously Filed As

US HJR73

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States giving Congress power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

US SJR58

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States authorizing the Congress to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

US HJR101

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States giving Congress power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

US SJR33

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime.

US SJR13

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to balancing the budget.

US SJR16

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of not more than 9 justices.

US HJR67

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring that the Federal budget be balanced.

US HJR9

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the United States Government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each House of Congress.

US HJR20

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of consecutive terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US HJR3

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.