In a closely contested vote late Thursday, the House of Representatives approved an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would limit the types of flags displayed by the Department of Defense. The amendment, introduced by Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), restricts displays to the American flag, state flags, military service flags, and other officially sanctioned banners.

This decision comes in the wake of recent controversies surrounding Pride Month celebrations within the military. The Air Force and Navy faced criticism for social media posts featuring rainbow flags, prompting this legislative action to regulate flag displays. While the Pentagon itself has not flown a Pride flag, its appearance in some military recruitment videos and temporary changes to social media banners have raised concerns among some lawmakers.

Rep. Norman's amendment aims to codify restrictions implemented during the Trump administration, preemptively addressing the increasing prevalence of Pride flags displayed by government agencies. He argues that flags hold significant symbolic meaning and should represent the entire nation, not specific groups. This perspective contrasts with the views of some Democratic representatives, who believe the amendment marginalizes the LGBTQ+ community within the military.

During the floor debate, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) expressed concern that the amendment represents an attempt to "erase and censure" the LGBTQ+ community, while Rep. Norman emphasized the importance of displaying flags that reflect national unity. This amendment is one of several reflecting GOP priorities within the NDAA, including efforts to eliminate what some consider "woke" programs within the Defense Department.

These amendments have sparked significant division, with some Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee expressing their inability to support the final bill due to these additions. Other approved amendments include a ban on mandatory race-related training within the DOD (introduced by Rep. Elijah Crane, R-AZ) and the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices (also introduced by Rep. Norman). An amendment from Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) prohibiting the purchase of certain books for DOD school libraries was also accepted. However, proposals to ban funding for sustainable building materials and electric vehicles were rejected.