Summary
Makes federal agencies use government money to buy U.S. flags that are completely made in the United States from American materials.
What problem does this solve?
The U.S. government was sometimes using taxpayer money to buy American flags that were made in other countries. This law makes sure that government funds are only used to purchase flags that are 100% made in America with American materials.
Who does this affect?
- U.S. flag manufacturers
- Federal government agencies
- Foreign flag manufacturers
What does this law do?
Requires 100% American-made flags
Forbids federal agencies from using funds to buy a U.S. flag unless it is 100% made in the United States from materials that are also 100% from the U.S.
Allows exceptions if U.S. flags are not available
Permits an agency to buy foreign-made flags if American-made ones of good quality and in enough quantity cannot be found when needed at U.S. market prices.
Exempts certain types of purchases
Excludes the rule for flags bought by ships in foreign waters, flags for resale in military stores, and purchases that are for small amounts of money.
Creates a presidential waiver for trade agreements
Allows the President to ignore the requirement if it is necessary to follow a trade agreement the United States has with other countries.
What is the real world impact?
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Supports American businesses
Ensures that money spent by the government on U.S. flags goes to companies that make their products and source their materials within the United States, helping the local economy.
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Promotes national pride
Guarantees that the nation's most important symbol, the American flag, is made by American workers on American soil, which can be seen as a patriotic act.
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Creates potential loopholes
Includes exceptions that allow buying foreign-made flags if American ones are not available or too expensive, and allows the President to waive the rule for trade agreements, which could weaken the law's impact.
When does this start?
This law's requirements apply to government contracts made 180 days or more after it was signed.
New contracts must follow the rule
The requirement to buy American-made flags applies to all government contracts signed 180 days or more after the law is enacted.
Presidential waiver notice
If the President waives the rule for a trade agreement, a notice must be published in the Federal Register within 30 days.