In a move to modernize Washington’s state flag, lawmakers have introduced House Bill 1938. This bill aims to establish a committee responsible for creating a new flag design that better reflects the state’s diverse identity and culture.

The current flag, featuring a green background with the state seal of George Washington, has been in use since 1923. Critics argue that its design is outdated and lacks relevance to contemporary Washingtonians.

Details of House Bill 1938

The proposed legislation seeks to form the Washington State Flag Redesign Committee. This committee would comprise various stakeholders, including:

The Director of the Washington State Arts Commission or a designee

Two state senators and two house representatives, with representation from both majority and minority parties

The Secretary of State or a designee

A historian appointed by the Washington State Historical Society

Two designers appointed by the Washington Arts Commission

Four tribal representatives from different regions, appointed by the governor

Four citizen representatives from various regions, also appointed by the governor

The committee’s mandate would be to oversee the design process, encouraging public submissions and feedback. The goal is to adopt a new flag design by July 1, 2028, which would then be presented to voters for approval.

Rationale Behind the Redesign

Proponents of the bill argue that the current flag’s design is overly complex, making reproduction difficult. They also note that the depiction of George Washington, who never visited the state, may not effectively represent Washington’s unique history and cultural diversity. Representative Strom Peterson (D-Edmonds), the bill’s sponsor, was inspired to propose the redesign after a constituent raised concerns about the flag’s relevance. Peterson emphasized the importance of a flag that embodies the state flag identity, stating that the current design lacks aesthetic value and historical significance.

Public and Legislative Response

The proposal has sparked a range of reactions. Supporters, including graphic designers and cultural leaders, believe a new flag could foster state pride and inclusivity. Bradley Lockhart, designer of Bellingham’s municipal flag, highlighted how a well-designed flag can become a beloved community symbol, appearing on murals, merchandise, and even tattoos.

Opponents, however, view the redesign as unnecessary and a potential affront to the state’s heritage. Representative Hunter Abell (R-Inchelium) expressed concerns that the initiative might be an attempt to remove George Washington from the flag, questioning whether this could lead to efforts to change the state’s name. Similarly, some citizens argue that there are more pressing issues for the legislature to address than redesigning the state flag.

Historical Context

Washington’s state flag, adopted in 1923, is unique among U.S. state flags for its green field and depiction of a president. Despite its distinctiveness, a 2001 survey by the North American Vexillological Association ranked it 47th out of 72 U.S. state, territorial, and Canadian provincial flags, citing its complicated seal as a significant drawback.

Next Steps

House Bill 1938 is currently under consideration, with its first public hearing held on February 18, 2025, before the House State Government and Tribal Relations Committee. A vote is scheduled for later this week. If the bill passes, the redesign committee will begin its work, aiming to engage the public extensively throughout the process to ensure the new flag resonates with Washington’s residents.