Mike Doyle: “As Flag Day quickly approaches, I can think of no other legislation more appropriate for the House to consider than…”

“As Flag Day quickly approaches, I can think of no other legislation more appropriate for the House to consider than House Joint Resolution 54. As an original cosponsor in both the 104th and 105th Congresses, I am pleased to voice my support for the right of our citizens to protect the American flag. While much of what the Congress considers derives its momentum from within the halls of Washington, the genesis and steadfast support of House Joint Resolution 54 comes directly from the constituents we all have the privilege to represent. Hundreds of residents from the 18th Congressional District of Pennsylvania have expressed to me their support for the U.S. Government to have the power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag. As House Joint resolution 54 has the support of 284 cosponsors, it is apparent proponents from across our great country have been equally vocal about their support. Given the fact that the cosponsor total is just six votes short of the two-thirds majority required for passage, I am confident that this year's vote will surpass the vote in the 104th Congress. Prohibiting the desecration of our flag does not deny individuals their thoughts or opinions, but preserves our national symbol of freedom as the most visible form of the ideals of the American people.”