Federal Flags Go 100% American-Made Under New Bill, Procurement Rules Start in 90 Days

A proposed law, the "Make American Flags in America Act of 2025," sets a strict standard for Old Glory when used by the federal government. Under this bill, any U.S. flag procured by a federal agency or displayed on federal property must be 100% manufactured in the United States. This means everything – from the raw materials like fabric and thread to the final assembly – has to originate domestically.

Stars, Stripes, and Supply Chains

The core of the bill (SEC. 2) is this 100% domestic requirement. It applies broadly across the government, covering executive, legislative, and judicial branches, plus D.C. government and government-controlled corporations. If an agency like the Department of Veterans Affairs or even a federal courthouse needs new flags, they'll have to source ones meeting this standard. This could mean a boost for U.S. textile mills and flag manufacturers capable of certifying their entire process is domestic. However, it might also increase costs for agencies if domestic flags are pricier than imported options. The bill specifies this doesn't force private citizens or businesses to change where they get their flags.

Reading the Fine Print: FTC Label Study

Beyond government purchasing, the bill tasks the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with taking a closer look at country-of-origin labeling for all U.S. flags sold commercially (SEC. 3). Within a year, the FTC Chair must report to Congress on how current labeling rules are enforced, how often violations occur (and by whom), and recommend ways to make enforcement more effective. This could eventually lead to clearer, more reliable "Made in USA" labels (or other origin labels) when you're buying a flag yourself, aiming to ensure consumers aren't misled.

Hoisting the Changes: Timelines and Hurdles

The rollout has two speeds. The requirement for federal agencies to procure (buy) only 100% U.S.-made flags kicks in quickly, just 90 days after the bill becomes law. The rule for flags displayed on federal property (which might include existing flags) takes effect two years after enactment, allowing more time for transition. An important caveat is that all these requirements must align with existing international trade agreements, though the bill doesn't detail how potential conflicts would be resolved. Verifying the 100% domestic origin throughout the supply chain could also present a practical challenge for both manufacturers and federal procurement officers.