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.
Impact
If enacted, this amendment could lead to significant changes in how acts of flag desecration, such as burning or vandalism, are addressed at both the federal and state levels. By empowering Congress to legislate against flag desecration, it could establish a uniform standard across the country, effectively overriding any state laws that protect such acts as a form of speech. This poses questions about the limits of free speech and the potential for increased federal oversight regarding state decisions on flag desecration.
Summary
HJR73 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the United States that seeks to give Congress the authority to prohibit the physical desecration of the American flag. The joint resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 14, 2023, by several Republican legislators and subsequent discussions have centered around its implications for state laws and constitutional rights. Should this amendment be ratified, it would modify the First Amendment framework, which currently protects freedom of expression, including controversial acts regarding the flag.
Contention
Debate surrounding HJR73 highlights a tension between two fundamental American principles: patriotism and freedom of speech. Proponents of the amendment argue that the physical desecration of the flag is an affront to national values and should not be considered acceptable under free speech protections. Detractors, however, caution that extending Congress’s power in this area could set a precedent that undermines the foundational rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Critics emphasize that any government interference in expression can lead to broader constraints on individual freedoms, sparking concerns over governmental overreach.
Same As
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.