What Michigan Law Says About Flag Burning And Free Speech

With all the talk of flag-burning and the legality of it, we should probably take a look at whether or not it's legal in Michigan to burn an American Flag.

On August 25th, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order that claims he wants to prosecute anyone who burns the American flag.

President Donald Trump wrote the following:

Our great American Flag is the most sacred and cherished symbol of the United States of America, and of American freedom, identity, and strength. Over nearly two-and-a-half centuries, many thousands of American patriots have fought, bled, and died to keep the Stars and Stripes waving proudly.

He went on to talk about why he feels flag-burning should be an offence:

Burning this representation of America may incite violence and riot. My Administration will act to restore respect and sanctity to the American Flag and prosecute those who incite violence or otherwise violate our laws while desecrating this symbol of our country, to the fullest extent permissible under any available authority.

Is It Illegal To Burn An American Flag In Michigan?

In short, no. Burning the American Flag, although looked down on by many as unpatriotic, is no laws against it. In fact, it's quite the opposite. burning the flag is seen as an act of free speech, which is protected under the First Amendment in our Bill of Rights.

However, there may be certain places where starting a fire, regardless of what you're burning, could land you in trouble with the police, even if it is a flag.