The debate over the potential redesign of Illinois’ state flag continues to divide public opinion. Critics of the redesign argue that the effort is a misuse of time and taxpayer dollars.

The state cannot afford to divert resources to a flag redesign when more pressing issues, such as financial instability, struggling schools, and the need to attract businesses, remain unaddressed. In a state already grappling with significant budget challenges, the flag redesign as emblematic of misplaced priorities, especially at a time when Illinois residents are looking for solutions to everyday problems.

The Illinois Flag Commission selected its top 10 finalists from nearly 5,000 submissions for the state flag redesign contest. These designs are available for public viewing and voting on the Secretary of State’s website. Residents have the opportunity to vote for one of the new designs, select from historical flag designs, or reject a redesign entirely by voting to retain the current flag. Individuals can cast their votes once every 24 hours, but once a vote is submitted, it cannot be changed.

After the public voting concludes, the Illinois Flag Commission will tally the votes and submit its findings and recommendations to the Illinois General Assembly by April 1. At that time, members of the General Assembly will vote on whether to adopt a new flag, return to a previous design, or retain the current flag.