# Washington State Flag: Proposed bill sparks debate
Washington State could be getting a new flag soon, subject to approval by [House Bill 1938](https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=1938&Year=2025&Initiative=false). The proposed law aims to create a committee that will design and adopt a new state emblem.
## A Flag facing Criticism
Washington State’s flag is a combination of the Washington Seal and George Washington, displayed prominently on a green background. The flag is historically important, but it has also been criticized. The flag has been criticized. [the text of House Bill 1938](https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bills/House%20Bills/1938.pdf?q=20250220033135), the design is considered “poor” and lacking relevance to the state’s unique identity. Further, the bill argues that George Washington’s detailed portrait makes the flag difficult to replicate and “overly complicated.”
It also highlights that although George Washington has been a major figure in American culture, his relationship with Washington state remains limited. It is believed that this perceived distance diminishes Washington’s significance as an icon of the identity of Washington state.
Lindsey Wasson/AP Photo
## Plan: Public Input and A Committee for Change
A diverse group of people would be on the committee that is proposed to redesign the Washington state flag. It includes the Washington State Arts Commission Director, both Democrat and Republican state legislators, a Washington State historian, representatives of various Washington communities, as well as tribal representatives.
It is the primary aim of this committee to design a new Washington state flag which “reflects accurately and with respect Washington’s rich history, diverse cultures, and resources.” Included in this are the contributions made by Washington’s Indigenous groups and the vibrant culture of the state.
The committee will seek feedback from the general public during the entire design process to ensure broad representation. By July 1, 2028 the committee hopes to submit a final design, which would then be presented in a Washington State referendum.
## A Divided Issue: Arguments for and against
The bill’s supporters argued during Tuesday’s public hearing that the legislation offers a unique opportunity for civic engagement, and that the state flag should better represent the spirit of Washington.
**State Representative Strom Peterson**, the Democratic sponsor of the bill, emphasized, “This bill is not an attempt to erase George Washington…what this bill wants to do…is really create an opportunity for civic engagement across the state.” He wants a state flag “that reflects history, culture, diversity and physical beauty.”
**Emmet O’Connell**, who testified in support, added, “Creating a broad, open and public process to design a new flag, one that reflects our entire state, doesn’t mean we’re ignoring the challenges we face.” O’Connell thinks that “our state deserves a new flag, one that’s not just something that we inherit but that’s inspired by us.”
Those opposed to the bill argued that the change of flag was disrespectful towards George Washington, and lawmakers should focus on other urgent issues that Washington State faces.
**Ryan Jewell**, an opponent, stated the flag redesign is a “loss focus on issues that truly matter and [will] “Tension and division are likely to result.” He said, “Let us not be that generation who tears each other apart.” [President Washington] Off of this sacred place”
**State Representative Hunter Abell**, a Republican, argued, “To be the only state in the nation to be named after a president is a distinct honor…we certainly should not be ashamed of or attempt to eliminate him from our flag.”
# The road ahead: Waiting for legislative action and voter input
House Bill 38 is still waiting for a vote from state legislators. The ultimate decision to adopt a new Washington State flag, if the bill is passed by the state legislatures in Washington will be made at a referendum. The Washington State Flag will reflect the wishes of its people if the bill passes.