Lawmakers approve bill restricting display of some flags on public property
In this March 15, 2021, file photo, demonstrators gather on the steps of the Montana State Capitol protesting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Helena. (Thom Bridge/Independent Record via AP, File)
A law prohibiting the display of certain flags and banners on government property passed the Montana Legislature on Tuesday.
House Bill 819 restricts flags and banners that “represent a political viewpoint” from being displayed on grounds owned or leased by state, county and local governments, including public schools, universities, courthouses and administrative buildings. Among the list of banned flags are any motifs that pertain to a specific race, sexual orientation, or gender, including Black Lives Matter flags and flags representing members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Republican lawmakers showed resounding support for the measure, which was introduced by Rep. Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls, arguing that some restriction was necessary to preserve government unity.
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