Madison, WI — Today, State Representative David Steffen (R-Howard) and State Senator Eric Wimberger (R-Oconto) introduced legislation establishing that only the U.S. flag, state flag, POW/MIA flag and the official flags of each branch of the U.S. armed forces can be flown or displayed at state and local government buildings.

“In recent years it’s become more common to see flags displayed at government buildings in recognition of various holidays and causes. Given the hundreds of national and global holidays that have been established over the years, it would be a challenge, if not impossible, to recognize each cause equally. A standard flag policy eliminates the potential of elevating one cause over another at our government buildings,” said Rep. Steffen.

The bill provides that should the state or a local government wish to allow other flags to be flown, exceptions can be adopted via a three-fourths majority vote of elected officials.

“Debate over which flags to fly leads to unnecessary controversy and anger. By focusing on our shared support of our Country, State, and those who have served in the military, governments can stay focused on what matters, improving the lives of Wisconsinites,” said Sen. Wimberger. “Government should be a neutral place towards group affiliation or personal identity, planting flags is an outward expression designed to send a message, and selecting representations of one group or another on a government building has no legitimate purpose.”

The proposal is currently circulating for co-sponsorship support before it will be available for consideration at a public hearing.

For more information please contact the offices of State Representative David Steffen at Rep.Steffen@legis.wisconsin.gov or (608)237-9104 or State Senator Eric Wimberger at Sen.Wimberger@legis.wisconsin.gov or (608)266-5670.