Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF4817

Introduced
3/11/24  

Caption

Gadsden flags ban prohibition

Impact

Should the bill become law, it would have significant implications for how state and local governments can manage the display of political symbols. Supporters argue that it is essential to maintain neutrality in public spaces to ensure that no specific ideology is favored over another. Conversely, opponents of the bill may view it as a restriction on freedom of expression, suggesting that the prohibition of the Gadsden flag could serve as a broader precedent limiting the display of other political symbols.

Summary

Bill SF4817, also known as the Gadsden Flags Ban Prohibition, seeks to address issues surrounding the display of certain political symbols within public spaces. Specifically, the bill aims to prohibit the display of the Gadsden flag in any capacity deemed as official representation by state or local authorities. This measure arises from ongoing discussions regarding the implications of using historical symbols in contemporary political discourse, with a focus on ensuring that public spaces do not inadvertently endorse specific political ideologies.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SF4817 include debates over freedom of speech and the rights of individuals to display symbols that hold historical significance. Proponents of the bill feel that a ban is necessary to avoid potential conflicts arising from the display of divisive political imagery, while critics argue that such a move undermines personal liberties and the diverse values that different communities may wish to express within their public spaces.

Companion Bills

MN HF4791

Similar To Gadsden flag bans prohibited.

Previously Filed As

MN HF4791

Gadsden flag bans prohibited.

MN SF4652

Rainbow flag ban prohibition

MN HF4273

Rainbow flag bans prohibited.

MN HB1064

Gadsden Flag Don’t Tread on Me License Plate

MN SF584

American Indian mascots and logos use prohibition

MN SF47

A bill for an act relating to Gadsden flag special registration plates.

MN HB255

Gadsden Flag Gun Safety License Plate

MN HSB615

A bill for an act relating to Gadsden flag special registration plates.(See HF 2424, HF 2639.)

MN HF2424

A bill for an act relating to Gadsden flag special registration plates.(Formerly HSB 615; See HF 2639.)

MN HB767

In registration of vehicles, providing for Gadsden flag plate.

Similar Bills

MN SF244

Department of Water Resources establishment; Board of Water and Soil Resources and Environmental Quality Board abolishment

MN SF929

Minnesota Health Plan establishment

MN SF932

Minnesota Health Plan establishment

MN SF933

Minnesota Health Plan establishment

MN SF930

Minnesota Health Plan establishment

MN SF931

Minnesota Health Plan establishment

MN HF1812

Health care guaranteed to be available and affordable for every Minnesotan; Minnesota Health Plan, Minnesota Health Board, Minnesota Health Fund, Office of Health Quality and Planning, ombudsman for patient advocacy, and auditor general for the Minnesota Health Plan established; Affordable Care Act 1332 waiver requested; and money appropriated.

MN HR4

A House resolution expressing the sense of the Minnesota House of Representatives reaffirming its commitment to the strengthening and deepening of the sister ties between the state of Minnesota and Taiwan.