Maryland 2026 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1103

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag

Impact

The passing of HB1103 would result in modifications to the Maryland Annotated Code, specifically the General Provisions section. It involves adding a new section recognizing the Freedom Flag and renumbering existing sections to accommodate this change. This formal designation would not only enhance state recognition of September 11 but may also encourage various memorial activities and commemorations within the state, reinforcing a collective memory and respect for history.

Summary

House Bill 1103, titled 'State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag', aims to establish the Freedom Flag as the official state symbol of remembrance for the September 11 attacks. This legislation proposes that the flag, which was designed by Richard Nicholas Melito, serves to memorialize the victims of the tragic events that unfolded on September 11, 2001. By designating this flag as a symbol, the bill seeks to ensure that the memory of those affected by the attacks is honored within Maryland's legislative framework.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward in its goal of remembrance, potential points of contention could arise regarding the establishment of state symbols. Some legislators might question the necessity of designating a specific item as a symbol, citing concerns over budget implications for educational programs or memorial events. Conversely, supporters of the bill might argue that having a dedicated state symbol fosters unity and remembrance for a significant historical event, impacting not just Maryland but providing a template for other states to follow.

Companion Bills

MD HB16

Carry Over State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag

Previously Filed As

MD SB169

State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag

MD HB16

State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag

MD HB1103

State Designations - Symbol of Remembrance for September 11 - Freedom Flag

MD SB159

State Designations - State Fruit - American Persimmon

MD SB562

State Designations - State Cocktail - Original Maryland Orange Crush

MD SB397

Motorcycles - Protective Headgear Requirement - Exception (In Remembrance of Gary "Pappy" Boward)

MD SB764

State Designations - State Cocktail and State Mineral - Original Maryland Orange Crush and Chromite

MD SB85

Braille Flag Memorial Act of 2025

MD HB455

Braille Flag Memorial Act of 2025

MD HB802

State Designations - State Carnivorous Plant - Purple Pitcherplant

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.