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House Education Committee introduces RS31867 to limit classroom flags to U.S. and Idaho banners
Summary
At a morning meeting of the Idaho House Education Committee, Representative Ted Hill introduced RS31867, a request-to-introduce measure that would limit classroom displays to the American and Idaho state flags. The committee approved the measure’s introduction by voice vote; no roll-call tally was recorded.
During a morning session of the Idaho House Education Committee, Representative Ted Hill introduced RS31867, a request-to-introduce measure that would make the American flag and the Idaho state flag the primary flags permitted in public classrooms.
The bill’s sponsor, Representative Ted Hill, said the measure is intended to prevent classroom displays of “any other flags represent[ing] any other political, ideological or religious entity” that he said could “distract” or “fracture our unity.” He told the committee, “The intent of this bill is to assure that the American flag and the Idaho state flag are the primary flags allowed within the public classroom.”
Hill framed the proposal in patriotic terms and referenced classroom rituals, saying, “Every day that we stand in front and we go in the house, we all come to attention, we put our hands on our heart and we all pledge allegiance. That’s an immense, powerful ritual that we do to show our commitment to the Republic and the unity we have.” He added, “There’s a time to have a flag and there’s other times for other flags. The American flag is a symbol of strength and unity and that’s what I want to embrace.”
Representative Hart, who indicated the subject had been brought to the committee last year and referenced an incident from that session, moved to introduce RS31867. The committee approved the motion to introduce the measure by voice vote; a roll-call or recorded tally was not provided in the transcript. The committee chair declared, “Any opposed? Motion carries.”
Earlier in the brief meeting, the committee approved minutes from its Jan. 13, 2025, session after Representative Tanner moved to approve them; that motion also passed by voice vote. Jeff Carlson, serving temporarily for Representative Mathias, introduced himself to the committee but did not participate in the flag discussion.
The transcript records the introduction of RS31867 and the committee’s agreement to introduce it but contains no further debate, amendments, or committee referrals. No date for additional committee action or public hearing on the measure was stated on the record.
