Reps. Miller, Sheehy testify on bill honoring Gold Star families

COLUMBUS- State Reps. Joe Miller (D-Amherst) and Michael Sheehy (D-Oregon) today provided sponsor testimony on House Bill (HB) 213, which would designate and display the Honor and Remember Flag, and require that it be flown at the Statehouse each Memorial Day under proper flag protocol. The bill also includes a permissive provision that allows other government buildings to fly the flag at their own discretion. 

This legislation was previously introduced as HB 406 in the 133rd General Assembly. It passed the House Armed Services & Veterans Affairs Committee unanimously, but did not receive a floor vote by the end of the legislative session.

“HB 213 would establish the Honor and Remember Flag as Ohio’s symbol of commitment to Gold Star families by honoring the members of the United States Armed Forces who lost their lives while serving or as a result of service. Each component of the flag was designed to contribute to its overall meaning, and personalized to each individual Gold Star family. For many of those who have been presented with an Honor and Remember Flag, it helps complete the circle of tribute to their loved one,” said Rep. Miller. 

“Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of listening to several testimonies from veterans’ organizations and Gold Star families about what the Honor and Remember Flag means to them. HB 213 gives Ohio another chance to honor and appreciate the ultimate sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, and to show our commitment to the families of the fallen,” said Rep. Sheehy.

Currently, 26 states have enacted similar legislation recognizing the Honor and Remember Flag. House Bill 213 now awaits its second hearing in the House Government Oversight Committee.