To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the display of the American Flag in certain federally funded elementary and secondary schools, and for other purposes.

3/11/2025, 8:07 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1351

Bill 119 hr 1351, also known as the Pledge of Allegiance and American Flag Display Act, aims to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to mandate the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the display of the American Flag in certain federally funded elementary and secondary schools. The bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to patriotic education and national pride.

If passed, this legislation would require schools that receive federal funding to ensure that students recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily and prominently display the American Flag in classrooms or common areas. The bill emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of patriotism and respect for the United States in students from a young age.

Supporters of the bill argue that requiring the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and displaying the American Flag in schools promotes national unity and pride. They believe that these symbols of American identity are essential for fostering a sense of civic responsibility and loyalty to the country. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about potential violations of students' First Amendment rights, particularly regarding the requirement to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. They argue that forcing students to participate in patriotic rituals may infringe upon their freedom of speech and expression. Overall, Bill 119 hr 1351 seeks to promote patriotism and national pride in federally funded elementary and secondary schools through the mandatory recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the display of the American Flag. The bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and educators about the balance between promoting patriotism and respecting individual rights.

Congressional Summary of HR 1351

Promoting American Patriotism In Our Schools Act

This bill requires local educational agencies (LEAs) to establish, maintain, and enforce policies that require federally funded public elementary and secondary schools to display the U.S. flag, educate students about the U.S. flag, and direct students and staff to recite the Pledge of Allegiance on a daily basis.

Specifically, LEAs, as a condition of receiving federal elementary and secondary education funds, must require the following activities at each school:

for all students, teachers, and staff to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each school day (with an exception for religious or personal reasons);
for the U.S. flag to be prominently displayed in each classroom and gymnasium; and
for educational materials on the history, significance, and proper display of the U.S. flag to be incorporated into the civics or history curriculum of each grade level.

The bill includes annual certification requirements. Further, the bill authorizes and directs the Department of Education to issue and secure compliance with rules or orders with respect to an LEA that fails to certify (or certifies in bad faith) compliance with the bill's requirements.

Current Status of Bill HR 1351

Bill HR 1351 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 13, 2025. Bill HR 1351 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 13, 2025. Bill HR 1351's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce. as of February 13, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1351

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1351

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1351

To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the display of the American Flag in certain federally funded elementary and secondary schools, and for other purposes.