A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission to study the history of the State flag of the Commonwealth, solicit design submissions for a new State flag and recommend changes to the State flag.
Impact
The establishment of the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding the design and adoption of state symbols. It will not only involve public participation in the design process but also may lead to revisions in the existing legal framework governing the state flag. The resolution aims to create a flag that better represents Pennsylvania's identity and history while adhering to contemporary standards for flag design. This could potentially reshape public perception of the state's imagery and contribute to a more unified state identity.
Summary
HR163 is a concurrent resolution that establishes the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission with the purpose of examining the history of the state flag, gathering design submissions for a new flag, and recommending potential changes to the current state flag. This initiative seeks to address the shortcomings of the existing Pennsylvania state flag, which is criticized for violating established principles of good flag design, such as simplicity and meaningful symbolism. The commission is empowered to consult various individuals and organizations to support its mission and will report its findings to the General Assembly within a year of the resolution's adoption.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR163 appears to be generally positive, as it promotes civic engagement by inviting public input on the flag design process. Lawmakers and proponents of the bill believe that a new flag would enhance Pennsylvania's visibility and distinguish it from other states. However, there are also concerns about the implications of changing a longstanding state symbol, indicating a division in perspectives on tradition versus modernization within the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention likely revolve around the necessity of changing the existing state flag. While proponents argue it is essential for branding and state identity, opponents may view it as an unnecessary expenditure of resources and effort. The resolution includes stipulations for budget oversight, which could mitigate some concerns regarding financial implications. The process of public consultation and design submission also raises questions about how representative the outcomes will be of the state’s diverse population.
A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Flag Commission to study the history of the State flag of the Commonwealth, solicit design submissions for a new State flag and recommend changes to the State flag.
A Concurrent Resolution establishing the Pennsylvania State Song Commission to study the history of the State song of the Commonwealth, solicit submissions for a new State song and recommend changes to the State song.
Providing for the Pennsylvania Amber Alert System, the Missing Endangered Person Advisory System and the Green Alert System and for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police; assessing costs; providing for immunity and penalties; and making a repeal.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and establish an advisory committee to determine the impact on Pennsylvania taxpayers of Pennsylvania State Police full or partial police services for municipalities that do not maintain full police coverage.
Authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority certain lands situate in the City of Harrisburg, Dauphin County; authorizing the transfer of an easement interest in lands for a portion of the Project 70 lands owned by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, known as Lake Winola Access, in Overfield Township, Wyoming County, to the Department of Transportation; authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, to convey to Tioga County a tract of land, and to accept a tract of land from Tioga County, both tracts being located in Charleston Township, Tioga County; and authorizing the Department of General Services, on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with the approval of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Governor, to grant and convey to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, solely for the use of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, a parcel in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, in exchange for a tract partly in Nesquehoning Borough and partly in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, to be conveyed to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, acting by and through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and added to Lehigh Gorge State Park.