New flag proposed to honor families of veterans lost to suicide since 9/11

What does this do?

HR 6022 would establish an official Green Star Service Flag for family members of veterans who died by suicide after September 11, 2001. The Department of Veterans Affairs would be responsible for designing the flag. Businesses could apply for a government license to manufacture and sell it.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects spouses, children, parents, and other close relatives of veterans who died by suicide after 9/11. It also affects businesses that wish to produce or sell the flag, since a government license would be required.

Why does it matter?

The bill is named after Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV and is modeled on the existing Gold Star flag tradition for families of service members killed in military service. It focuses solely on providing an official symbol of recognition and does not create new financial benefits or services for affected families.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Unlicensed makers fined up to $1,000
• License required to sell flag
• No new spending for families