New Jersey Senate Bill SR70

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Memorializes Congress and Department of Housing and Urban Development to permit display of American flag and yellow ribbons on public housing premises.

Impact

If passed, SR70 would affirm the right of residents in public housing to display symbols of patriotism, like the American flag and yellow ribbons, in a reasonable and safe manner. This change would clarify federal law regarding the expression of patriotic sentiments, potentially influencing local regulations and authority interpretations. It may require adjustments in the policies of housing authorities that have previously limited such expressions, ensuring that patriotic displays are permissible and supported.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 70 (SR70) serves as a formal request to Congress and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to explicitly permit the display of the American flag and yellow ribbons on public housing premises. The resolution stems from concerns that local public housing authority interpretations of the Fair Housing Act have been misapplied to restrict such displays unless potentially offensive symbols are also allowed. It emphasizes the importance of allowing residents to express their patriotism without unnecessary restrictions.

Contention

One notable point of contention highlighted in the resolution is the interpretation of the nondiscrimination provisions of the Fair Housing Act. Critics argue that current laws may misinterpret these provisions to justify the prohibition of patriotic symbols, prompting the need for either clarification or amendment. The resolution references the Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005, which, while supportive of flag display rights, may not adequately protect the interests of public housing residents. The resolution aims to address these gaps and protect the right to display these symbols nationally.