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Senate Passes Flag-Etiquette Bill After American Legion Testimony
Summary
After remarks from American Legion national commander Al Lance urging support for veterans' measures, the Utah Senate passed Senate Bill 21 (flag etiquette) on third reading by voice and recorded vote; the commander also warned lawmakers about strain on active military forces.
The Utah State Senate passed Senate Bill 21, a measure related to flag etiquette and education about the national emblem, after hearing testimony from the national commander of the American Legion.
Al Lance, national commander of the American Legion, addressed the chamber and urged senators to support SB21 and other veterans' priorities. Lance cited the organization’s youth programs and veterans' services in Utah and told senators: “I congratulate you on your consideration of Senate Bill 21, which is the flag etiquette bill.” He also raised national concerns about troop levels, saying, “the experts tell us that we need 1,750,000 on active duty … but we only have 1,370,000 presently on active duty,” warning that reserve and National Guard deployments have increased strain on forces.
Senators briefly discussed materials distributed by the American Legion and accepted the motion to call the question. The Senate recorded 29 aye votes, no nays, and sent Senate Bill 21 to the House for further action.
Lawmakers and guests noted that the measure includes materials the American Legion recommends for schools to teach flag etiquette. With passage, proponents said the bill will help instill respect for the U.S. flag among students; opponents did not mount a sustained floor challenge during the time‑certain debate.
The bill will be transmitted to the House for concurrence and further processing.
