On March 29, 2000, Senate Joint Resolution 14, the Flag Protection Constitutional Amendment, was lost in a 63-37 vote in the United States Senate.

Falling four short of the necessary 67 votes, the Citizens Flag Alliance noted deep disappointment in two Senators whose previous support was withdrawn at the last minute. Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV) notified CFA Board Chairman MG Patrick Brady and American Legion National Commander Alan Lance of his decision just a day before the scheduled vote. Deliberations with the Senator in the closing hours just before the vote were to no avail and Sen. Byrd voted "Nay" to SJ Res. 14.

Nevada's US Senator, Richard Bryan (D-NV), without disclosing a change in position also voted "Nay," and has yet to explain his change.

Once again a clear, but insufficient, majority supported it. Once again, a small number of US Senators made it clear they place no trust in the American people and have a mere spoken regard for the importance the people place on the Flag of the United States.

Looking back at the loss of the measure there is disappointment, but no deterrent to CFA efforts to secure a flag protection amendment. The attitude of the Board of Directors of the CFA is one of determination. It has never been a question of "if," but only of "when." We will be very visible during the campaign cycle, letting America know where the candidates - both incumbent and challengers - stand on the issue of constitutional protection for the flag of the United States.

Following is the vote count on SJ Res. 14. Please communicate your appreciation to those who supported the proposed amendment, as well as your disappointment in those who did not.