Sweeney & DeAngelo Act to Ensure Right to Display American Flag Over NJ Highways

Trenton – Acting to ensure the right to display the American flag over the highway overpasses on the New Jersey Turnpike and roadways operated by the South Jersey Transportation Authority, Senate President Steve Sweeney and Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo introduced legislation to specifically exempt the displays from the rule cited by highway officials in removing the flags.

“There should be no doubt or confusion about the right to display the Stars and Stripes over some of the most heavily traveled roadways in the state – including out-of-state motorists travelling to or through New Jersey,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “The American flag is not a ‘distraction,’ it is a meaningful symbol of the values and principles that define us as a Nation. It is just as meaningful now as it has been in our history.”

“The American flag is a symbol of hope, bravery and freedom. In these uncertain times, it serves as a reminder of our country’s resilience in the face of crisis,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “The misguided attempt to ban flags from being displayed on highway overpasses was unacceptable and un-American. Our flag should be flown high and proud.”

This bill authorizes private individuals and organizations, including law enforcement and veterans groups, to display the American flag on a bridge or overpass that is on or over property owned by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and South Jersey Transportation Authority, with the authority’s permission. The bill would have the authorities develop a permit process to make sure the flags are displayed and maintained, “in a manner consistent with the rules and customs deemed the proper manner to display the flag.”

The NJTA and SJTA would be prohibited from removing any American flag displayed in accordance with the bill.