Prosecuting Burning of the American Flag
Federal Government Directs Prosecution for Burning the American Flag
What it does
Agencies must prioritize enforcing criminal and civil laws against flag desecration, refer local violations to state authorities, and pursue immigration remedies for foreign nationals.
Real-world impact
- Increased prosecutions for those who burn the American Flag under criminal laws.
- Immigration consequences for foreign nationals found to desecrate the flag.
- State and local authorities may be asked to enforce burning and property laws.
Topics
Summary
This executive order directs federal authorities to prioritize enforcing criminal and civil laws against burning or otherwise desecrating the American Flag. It authorizes prosecutions and court actions to the fullest extent allowed by the Constitution.
The order tells federal law enforcement to refer possible violations of state or local open burning, disorderly conduct, or property laws to local authorities, and it allows immigration officials to deny, revoke, or terminate visas, residency, naturalization, and to seek removal of foreign nationals who engage in flag desecration.
The stated purpose is to restore respect for the Flag and to prevent violence or intimidation.
Questions, answered
Ask questions about this executive order and its implications. Try:
- “What agencies are affected by this order?”
- “How does this order change existing policy?”
- “What are the practical implications of this order?”