Anti-Flag Burning Amendment Advances

Congress would have authority to outlaw desecration of the U.S. flag under a proposed constitutional amendment approved by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

Republican leaders have said they plan a House vote the week of June 9, near Flag Day. The Senate is expected to take up the measure later.

The amendment would not outlaw flag desecration itself, but would authorize Congress to take that step.

Two committee Democrats - Rep. Robert Wexler of Florida and Rep. Steven Rothman of New Jersey - joined 18 Republicans in voting for the amendment.