Legislation Would Ban Foreign-Made U.S. Flags

[The Straight Story]

Legislation Would Ban Foreign-Made U.S. Flags

Last Updated: 10:57 AM Feb 14, 2009

The Flag Manufacturers Association of America says U.S. Census Bureau estimates show that $5.3 million worth of U.S. flags were imported from foreign countries in 2006, and that figure has remained stable for the past several years. Notably, most of these imports were from China. Republican Congressman Walter Jones is among those who want to change that.

Jones and Rep. Dan Boren (D-OK) have introduced the Genuine American Flag Act, legislation that would prohibit foreign-made U.S. flags, regardless of size, from being imported for sale inside the United States.

"This legislation should be a no-brainer," Congressman Jones said. "Especially at a time when our nation's economy is hurting, it is just plain commonsense that the American flag - the symbol of our nation's strength and unity - should be manufactured here in the United States."

"Many Americans are unaware that the flags they proudly display this President's Day could actually be made in places like China," said Congressman Boren. "The most important symbol of the United States should be made by U.S. companies that employ hard-working U.S. citizens. It is imperative that we pass this legislation before foreign companies continue to gain a foothold in the manufacture of U.S. flags."

http://www.witn.com/politics/headlines/39595312.html

[BlueCaliDem]

1. This is a GOOD idea. If a person wants an American Flag, why not buy one

Made in America not China, for example?

It's a precious symbol of our country and if we have to pay double, even triple to have one, then that is what we should do.

I'm all for it.

[catnhatnh]

2. This is another idea as stupid as " freedom fries".

$5.3 million is minuscule and any jobs gained would be low skill and low paid. More jobs could be created by banning the foreign manufacture of women's size 7 socks and I don't doubt that moron Jones could find some patriotic spin to justify it.