NOVEMBER 27, 2024 — A new bill introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives on Tuesday, November 26, proposes the adoption of a redesigned state flag by January 1, 2026, WLNS 6 reports.
The legislation outlines plans for a state flag design contest and the establishment of a commission to oversee the process.
Representative Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) introduced House Bill 6190 on Tuesday.
If enacted, the bill would create a commission comprising professional artists, state historians, representatives from arts and design departments at Michigan universities, and appointees from state officials, including the governor and Secretary of State.
According to WGRD 97.9, the commission would organize a contest to solicit public designs for a new state flag, running from January 26 to July 26, with the winning design set to be announced on September 26.
The redesign initiative would replace Michigan’s current flag, which features the state’s Coat of Arms on a blue background.
While Michigan has been a state since 1837, an official flag was not adopted until 1865. Prior to that, the state used various designs featuring the Coat of Arms.
The Coat of Arms includes significant symbolism: an American eagle holding three arrows and an olive branch, representing readiness to defend principles while seeking peace; the Latin motto “E Pluribus Unum” (“From many, one”); the word “Tuebor” (“I will defend”); and the phrase “Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice” (“If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you”), a reference to Michigan’s geography.
If the bill passes, Michigan’s new flag design would officially take effect on January 1, 2026.
Image: Public domain