The resolution, (H.J. Res. 33), which received firm backing from Congressman Walter B. Jones (R-NC), would enable Congress to enact legislation to protect the flag without the threat of such laws being ruled unconstitutional.

During debate on the House floor yesterday, Congressman Jones spoke in support of the resolution.

“We disgrace our United States soldiers, their families, and ourselves when we do not take action to protect our nation’s flag from desecration,” Jones said.
 
“You and I stand and pledge our allegiance to the flag everyday.  But it is our United States soldiers who salute and serve beneath the flag who truly bear the burden of ultimate allegiance – they sacrifice their lives to protect our freedom and liberty,” he said.

“When we allow our flag, the very essence of our country to be destroyed, we dishonor the men and women who gave their lives –serving under that flag – so that every one of us could live free,” he said.

The House passed an identical flag-protection resolution in the 105th session of Congress.  Unfortunately, it failed to gain the necessary two-thirds majority of support in the Senate.