Michigan House Bill HB6190

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/26/24
• Refer: 11/26/24

Caption

State: symbol; Michigan state flag; redesign, and create flag commission to conduct redesign contest. Amends title & sec. 3 of 1911 PA 209 (MCL 2.23) & adds sec. 3a.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6190 would require the state to transition from the current flag design to a new one chosen through a public design contest. This change is expected to reinvigorate the state's identity and engage citizens in the process of defining what the state's flag represents. By formalizing the selection process through a commission, the bill aims to ensure that the final design resonates more effectively with the public and reflects contemporary values. The bill is poised to amend laws related to the display and use of state flags, creating new standards for their use and manufacture.

Summary

House Bill 6190 aims to amend existing legislation concerning the design and regulation of Michigan's state flag and coat-of-arms. The bill primarily seeks to create a flag commission responsible for overseeing a contest to redesign the state flag. The commission will consist of appointed experts in art and design, as well as representatives appointed by various political leaders, ensuring a diverse input into the design process. The timeline allows for design submissions beginning on January 26, 2025, and the selected design is expected to be announced by September 26, 2025, marking a significant shift in the state's approach to its symbolic representation.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to modernize Michigan's symbols, it may also face opposition. Issues related to the symbolism of the new design, the appropriateness of the current flag until the redesign is completed, and how the contest will be proposed and executed could all become points of contention among legislators and the public. Some may argue that a redesign is unnecessary or that it could lead to divisiveness over what symbols should represent the state. Additionally, concerns about the budget and resources allocated to this project versus current needs may arise as discussions progress.