Michigan lawmaker pushes for new state flag design

(The Center Square) – Michigan’s flag of 113 years could be redesigned if new legislation passes both chambers.

State Rep. Phil Skaggs, D-East Grand Rapids, introduced a bill that would set up a 17-member flag commission to officiate a public design contest to change the current state flag.

Skaggs, who introduced identical legislation in 2023 that failed, has not given a reason for the bill. The current flag, featuring the state’s coat of arms on a blue background, is Michigan’s third flag design and was adopted in 1911. 

The proposed flag commission would accept design submissions from Jan. 26 until July 26. The design winner would be announced by Sept. 26, and the new design would take effect Jan. 1, 2026, at which the commission would dissolve.

The commission would operate within the Department of State and include two individuals appointed by the governor, three appointed by the Michigan Historical Commission, six appointed from different state universities, two appointed by House leaders, two appointed by Senate leaders, one appointed by the Secretary of State, and one appointed by the Attorney General.

The members of the flag commission would not receive compensation but could receive reimbursement for expenses incurred while conducting official duties.

A valid design would have to be the original work of the person submitting it and have the reverse side mirror the front side. The commission would determine other guidelines and requirements.