SPRINGFIELD – State agencies and institutions could only purchase American and Illinois flags manufactured in the United States under a measure sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) that passed committee Wednesday.

“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.”

The measure would change the Flag Display Act to no longer allow state institutions or agencies to purchase American and Illinois flags from manufacturers outside of the U.S.

“Our state agencies and institutions purchase flags every year,” Stadelman said. “This will ensure those flags are American made.”

Under the Flag Display Act, flags are designated to be necessary supplies for institution and agency budgets.

House Bill 605 passed the Senate State Government Committee without opposition and now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.