Old Glory Only Act This bill prohibits the flying of any flag other than the U.S. flag over U.S. diplomatic and consular posts.
Impact
The bill could have implications for how the United States engages with other nations, as flags often symbolize the values and identities of states. By enforcing a single flag policy, the Act could potentially simplify the conduct and decorum expected at U.S. posts abroad. Opponents might argue that this legislation could neglect the diversity and representation of other entities that play a role in foreign affairs, such as international organizations or treaties that encompass multiple nations.
Summary
House Bill 146, known as the 'Old Glory Only Act', seeks to enforce a prohibition against the flying of any flag other than the United States flag at U.S. diplomatic and consular posts. The bill was introduced on January 9, 2023, and aims to ensure that the U.S. flag is the sole emblem displayed at these international representations of the country. This measure reflects a broader sentiment of promoting national pride and unity among its supporters.
Contention
While supporters of HB146 may view the legislation as a necessary act to maintain a clear and united front for the United States, there is potential contention regarding the bill's impact on diplomatic signaling. Critics could argue that flying only the U.S. flag may be exclusionary, failing to acknowledge the collaborative nature of international diplomacy which often involves participation from multiple nations. This could lead to discussions around the balance between patriotism and global diplomatic relations.
Preventing Unjust Red Flag Laws Act of 2023 This bill prohibits the use of federal funds to implement or enforce red flag laws. The term red flag law means a risk-based, temporary, and preemptive protective order that authorizes the removal of a firearm without due process.
Care Packages for Our Heroes Act of 2023 This bill directs the U.S. Postal Service to establish rates of postage for packages shipped by priority mail from the United States to a foreign Army Post Office, Fleet Post Office, or Diplomatic Post Office address that limit the charge for distance traveled.
No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2023 This bill modifies provisions relating to federal funding for, and health insurance coverage of, abortions. Specifically, the bill prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions or for health coverage that includes abortions. Such restrictions extend to the use of funds in the budget of the District of Columbia. Additionally, abortions may not be provided in a federal health care facility or by a federal employee. Historically, language has been included in annual appropriations bills for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions—such language is commonly referred to as the Hyde Amendment. Similar language is also frequently included in appropriations bills for other federal agencies and the District of Columbia. The bill makes these restrictions permanent and extends the restrictions to all federal funds (rather than specific agencies). The bill's restrictions regarding the use of federal funds do not apply in cases of rape, incest, or where a physical disorder, injury, or illness endangers a woman's life unless an abortion is performed. The Hyde Amendment provides the same exceptions. The bill also prohibits qualified health plans from including coverage for abortions. Currently, qualified health plans may cover abortion, but the portion of the premium attributable to abortion coverage is not eligible for subsidies.
This bill establishes which state law governs health insurers offering coverage in multiple states. Specifically, the bill provides that the laws of a state designated by a health insurer (primary state) apply to individual health insurance coverage offered by that insurer in any other state (secondary state) if the coverage, states, and insurer comply with the conditions of this bill. Insurers are exempted from any secondary state's laws that would prohibit or regulate the operation of the insurer in that state. The primary state is given sole jurisdiction to enforce its covered laws in any secondary state. The Government Accountability Office must study the effect of this bill on specified health insurance issues.