MS
Mississippi Senate Bill SB2532

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2532

Introduced
1/17/22  
Refer
1/17/22  

Caption

State flag; require governmental entities, public colleges, universities and school districts to display or be subject to penalty.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state policies on patriotism and representation. If enacted, failure to comply with the flag display requirements would lead to state funding being withheld from non-compliant entities. This provision is designed to enforce compliance through financial penalties, effectively making the display of the state flag a condition for continued financial support. Public school districts and universities must also ensure that the state flag is displayed during school hours and conditions regarding half-staff protocols are observed.

Summary

Senate Bill 2532 seeks to amend sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972 regarding the display of the official state flag by governmental entities and educational institutions. The bill mandates that all governmental entities receiving state funds and public colleges and universities must display the state flag on weekdays, specifically Monday through Friday, in designated locations including government office buildings and campus areas. The legislation emphasizes the requirement of proper etiquette for flag display, ensuring that the state flag is not displayed above the U.S. flag and is respected accordingly.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2532 revolve around the enforcement mechanisms proposed. Critics argue that the bill’s stringent compliance requirements infringe upon local autonomy and the discretion of localized governance. While supporters view the bill as a means of fostering national pride and unity, opponents express concerns that it may lead to unintentional penalties affecting essential public services if local authorities mismanage flag display protocols. This friction highlights the ongoing debate between state mandates and local governance rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB2152

Requiring the display of the national motto in public schools, colleges and universities.

MS SB2677

Public schools; allow voluntary prayer, require Ten Commandments be displayed, and require certain size of U.S. flag.

MS SB2167

Public schools; allow voluntary prayer, require Ten Commandments to be displayed, and require certain size of U.S. flag.

MS H1011

Display of Flags by Governmental Entities

MS H0075

Display of Flags by Governmental Entities

MS H0901

Display of Flags by Governmental Entities

MS HF694

A bill for an act relating to the display of flags on and in public buildings, grounds, and vehicles, and providing penalties.

MS SB762

Relating to the display of flags in public schools; providing a civil penalty.

MS HB3842

Relating to the prohibited display of certain flags in governmental buildings or on governmental property; providing a civil penalty.

MS HB527

Universities and colleges; require to allow MS residents to register for classes before nonresident students.

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