(WWJ) Does Michigan's state flag need an update?
Republican State Representative Andrea Schroeder of Oakland County has introduced a bill that would create a commission to choose a new state flag, after submissions are summitted by people from across the state.
"I believe that Michigan has so much more to offer and is such a unique place that we really should have a flag reflect our history, or culture, and tell our story better," she told WWJ Newsradio 950's Dan Jenkins.
READ: House Bill 4567
Schroeder said there are 22 other states whose flags are also just the state seal on a blue background.
Basically, she believes Michigan deserves something better.
"We are a state of two peninsulas, we have three international borders, four Great Lakes and just an embarrassment of riches in natural resources," Schroeder said.
"And not just that, but, you know, we have historic Native American culture that still thrives today, and we can still see evidence of the French and British influence here," she added. "So, I just think our flag should tell our story, and makes us unique and what makes Michigan such a special place to live and work."
But, aren't there more important things to worry about right now?
Schroeder said she believes lawmakers are capable of focusing on picking a new flag, as well as more important matters.
"We can walk and chew gum at the same time," she said. "Clearly, COVID and our budget issues are our top priorities in the Legislature, but the rest of the government still has to continue to work."
"We just did a bunch of health care reform bills... and so we are focused on those critical and important issues. So, this is not a replacement, but rather something else that we can do."
Under Schroeder's plan — if passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor — the commission would chose a new flag by 2024.
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