Overview

• The executive order instructs Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Justice Department to prioritize investigations and prosecutions tied to flag desecration using existing criminal and civil laws.
• State and Homeland Security are directed to consider revoking or denying visas, residency, naturalization and other immigration benefits for noncitizens who profane the flag, with possible removal from the U.S.
• Trump said offenders would face one year in jail, but the signed order does not set a specific penalty and relies on statutes such as disorderly conduct or fire regulations.
• The order argues prosecutions are permissible where burning is likely to incite imminent illegal action or qualifies as fighting words, narrowing protections recognized in Texas v. Johnson (1989).
• Hours after the signing, Park Police arrested a protester who lit a flag near the White House under rules against unauthorized fires, as civil-liberties groups signaled imminent legal challenges.