Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR163

Introduced
6/27/23  

Caption

A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission to study the history of the State flag of the Commonwealth, solicit design submissions for a new State flag and recommend changes to the State flag.

Impact

The establishment of the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding the design and adoption of state symbols. It will not only involve public participation in the design process but also may lead to revisions in the existing legal framework governing the state flag. The resolution aims to create a flag that better represents Pennsylvania's identity and history while adhering to contemporary standards for flag design. This could potentially reshape public perception of the state's imagery and contribute to a more unified state identity.

Summary

HR163 is a concurrent resolution that establishes the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission with the purpose of examining the history of the state flag, gathering design submissions for a new flag, and recommending potential changes to the current state flag. This initiative seeks to address the shortcomings of the existing Pennsylvania state flag, which is criticized for violating established principles of good flag design, such as simplicity and meaningful symbolism. The commission is empowered to consult various individuals and organizations to support its mission and will report its findings to the General Assembly within a year of the resolution's adoption.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR163 appears to be generally positive, as it promotes civic engagement by inviting public input on the flag design process. Lawmakers and proponents of the bill believe that a new flag would enhance Pennsylvania's visibility and distinguish it from other states. However, there are also concerns about the implications of changing a longstanding state symbol, indicating a division in perspectives on tradition versus modernization within the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention likely revolve around the necessity of changing the existing state flag. While proponents argue it is essential for branding and state identity, opponents may view it as an unnecessary expenditure of resources and effort. The resolution includes stipulations for budget oversight, which could mitigate some concerns regarding financial implications. The process of public consultation and design submission also raises questions about how representative the outcomes will be of the state’s diverse population.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HR71

A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission to study the history of the State flag of the Commonwealth, solicit design submissions for a new State flag and recommend changes to the State flag.

PA HR25

A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Song Commission to study the history of the State song of the Commonwealth, solicit submissions for a new State song and recommend changes to the State song.

PA HR41

A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Song Commission to study the history of the State song of the Commonwealth, solicit submissions for a new State song and recommend changes to the State song.

PA HB210

Establishing a commission to study the state flag and its history.

PA H0559

Designation of the Official State Flagship

PA HB1297

State government; agencies buy American when procuring flags of the United States or state flags; provide

PA SB113

Establish the state flag design commission.

PA SB1756

Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for United States flags and Texas state flags.

PA HB2041

Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for United States flags and Texas state flags.

PA HB1727

Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for United States flags and Texas state flags.

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