Gianforte Signs Onto Bill to Protect American Flag

Statement

The day before Independence Day, Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte announced he is cosponsoring a constitutional amendment allowing Congress to ban desecration of the American flag.

"From our nation's beginning, courageous Americans have paid the ultimate sacrifice under the banner of our flag," Gianforte said. "As we celebrate our Independence Day, it's critical that we protect our flag, a symbol of hope, freedom, and democracy throughout the world."

Until a 1989 U.S. Supreme Court decision overturned states' authority to ban flag desecration, 48 states had laws banning flag burning. The Supreme Court narrowly decided the case, Texas v. Johnson, with a 5-4 vote.

In 2006, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a constitutional amendment giving Congress power to prohibit desecration of the American flag. The measure narrowly fell short of the 67 votes required for passage in the U.S. Senate.

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