In recognition of Flag Day, the First Flag Act was passed by the Second Continental Congress on this day in 1777. It stated “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” The only president to serve under this flag was George Washington (1789-1797). This flag was flown for 18 years, until April 30th, 1795 when a fifteen star flag was adopted. President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14th as Flag Day in 1916. And in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress. Flag Day is not, however, an official federal holiday.
You will notice that this edition of our e-newsletter does not include any legislative news as the 2016 Session concluded on March 11th and no special sessions are on the horizon. With the redrawing of all the Senate and House seats last fall, incumbents and candidates for the new districts are gathering petitions or paying the filing fee to run for their respective office. Legislative candidates must file by June 24th. Judicial candidates filed by May 6th. While the majority of these races are uncontested, 86 judicial seats will be on ballots throughout the state this November. Expect more updates on the political races in coming editions as well as information about the constitutional amendments.