National state and city flags fly on Michigan Avenue Bridge in Chicago, Illinois. (Andrew Woodley/Universal Images Group via Getty Images / Getty Images)
CHICAGO - State agencies and institutions would only be permitted to purchase American and Illinois flags manufactured in the United States under a measure that passed through committee on Wednesday.
The measure, introduced by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford), would change the Flag Display Act to no longer allow state agencies and instutions from purchasing flags from foreign manufacturers.
"This is the right thing to do. As a government, we have no business flying our state and nation’s flags if they aren’t made in America," Stadelman said. "Supporting our local businesses and economies should always take priority."
DOWNLOAD THE FOX 32 NEWS APP FOR BREAKING ALERTS
The Flag Display Act designates flags as necessary supplies in institution and agency budgets.
"Our state agencies and institutions purchase flags every year," Stadelman said. "This will ensure those flags are American made."
House Bill 605 passed the Senate State Government Committee without opposition on Wednesday and now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.