This legislation will promote U.S. manufacturing by reinforcing demand for domestic materials and labor in the production of American flags, further strengthening our economy and the industries that employ American workers.
The American flag is one of the most enduring symbols of our democracy. However, many flags flown on federal property or purchased by federal agencies today are manufactured overseas using foreign materials. This diminishes the value of our flag as a symbol of national pride and as a product emblematic of the American worker.
Currently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has standards in place to protect consumers through country-of-origin labeling requirements, but enforcement and compliance are inconsistent. This allows foreign-produced flags to be labeled as American-made despite not meeting the strict standards Americans expect.
“This is a no-brainer: American flags should be made in America,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Our flag is a symbol of democracy, power, and glory. The best way to honor these principles is to make sure our nation’s economy and American manufacturers benefit from it.”
Congressman Landsman said, “The American flag represents so much—our nation’s history, and our future to come. It’s right that our flags be manufactured here in America.”
Other original co-sponsors on this bill include: Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH), Rep. Rob Aderholt (R-AL), Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY), Rep. Daniel Webster (R-FL), Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN), Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX), Rep. Donald Davis (D-NC), Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA), Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Rep. Tom Barrett (R-MI), Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Rep. Tim Moore (R-NC), Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Rep Eric Burlison (R-MO), Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH), Rep. Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), and Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY).
This bill is supported by the National Council of Textile Organizations, Flag Manufacturers Association of America, National Independent Flag Dealers Association, and New York State Association of Counties.
