U.S. State Flags: Redesigns in 2024

Are you also wondering what’s up with the new U.S. State flags having redesigns in 2024? State flags symbolize the defining characteristics, values, and history of individual states within the union. Flown at various municipal buildings and sometimes displayed by proud business owners at commercial buildings or residents at private homes. State flags honor a geographic region and the people who live there.

While preserving the heritage of a state flag is important, there are reasons why a state would choose to update its flag’s design. Modern colors or symbols might stand out and better represent the state or display the changing sensibilities of its citizens.

These are the reasons to the redesigns of the following State flags in 2024:

Utah

The original Utah state flag was first adopted in 1911. It consists of a blue background with the state seal, a small beehive, and an eagle above two U.S. flags. On March 9, 2024, the more-than-century-old design was officially replaced by an updated version. The new design has descending stripes of blue, white, and red. It also has a much larger central beehive above a small star surrounded by a hexagon.

The new design symbolizes the majestic mountains and open skies of Utah. And the more prominent beehive symbolizes a community working together for the common good.

Minnesota

After considering more than 2,600 submissions, Minnesota recently chose a new state flag. It is a design by Luverne resident Andrew Prekker and officially replaced its former flag on May 11, 2024.

The new design features an eight-point star in white over a field of blue on the left. Along with a field of white on the right side with a chevron pointing to the left. The colors represent the many lakes dotting the state. The chevron signifies the shape of the state. The eight-point star, symbolic of the North Star, is a nod to Minnesota’s nickname, The North Star State.

Illinois

The current Illinois state flag features a white background with a central image of an eagle. It perches atop a shield with stars and stripes. It holds a banner that reads “National Union” on one side and “State Sovereignty” on the other.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill in August of 2023, creating the Illinois Flag Commission to explore options for new state flags. The Commission will choose ten redesign finalists by September 2024. Submission of reports to the state General Assembly is by December.

Is it Time to Update Your Flag?

Supporting your state could mean updating the flag you fly when a new design is officially adopted. But that doesn’t mean you can’t fly your favorite historic state flags, as well. Elmer’s Flag is always here to help you display your state pride. Contact us today to learn more about the state flags we have available.