Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Star-Spangled Summit Act, a bill to authorize a special-use permit allowing the American flag to be flown on Kyhv Peak above Provo, Utah. Rep. Mike Kennedy (R-UT) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
For over two decades, Robert Collins has made the seasonal trek up Kyhv Peak to proudly display the U.S. flag. In 2021, the Forest Service informed Collins that his long-standing tribute was inconsistent with agency policy prohibiting structures or improvements on National Forest System lands without a special-use authorization. The Star-Spangled Summit Act would resolve this impasse by requiring the Forest Service to issue a permit for this one specific and symbolic act of patriotism.
“Utahns are among the most patriotic people in the country,” said Senator Curtis. “It shouldn’t take an act of Congress to allow an American flag to fly on a mountain peak, but here we are. This is about more than red tape—it’s about recognizing that local traditions, patriotism, and common sense still matter. Robert’s quiet, consistent act of honoring our country deserves to be celebrated, not blocked by bureaucracy.”
Each year, Robert Collins hiked with his son to raise the American flag. That tradition speaks to who we are as a state and a country,” saidSenator Lee. “I’m proud to join Senator Curtis in making sure that tradition continues—so future generations of Utahns can raise the flag, honor their country, and carry forward what Robert Collins began.”
Background:
For more than 20 years, Robert Collins has seasonally raised the American flag atop Kyhv Peak overlooking the Provo Valley. The annual ascent, made following the snowmelt, involves community members gathering to honor the flag, veterans, and the foundational ideals of the nation. In 2021, the U.S. Forest Service cited policy restrictions that prohibit the construction or placement of any structure, including flagpoles, on National Forest lands without an official permit.
Curtis previously introduced the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives while serving as Utah’s Representative from the Third Congressional District.
Senator Curtis noted that in much of the country, a decision of this nature would fall to local communities. But in Utah, where nearly 70% of the land is federally owned, decisions that might elsewhere be routine often require intervention from Congress.
“In many ways, this story underscores the broader challenge Utah and other Western states face when it comes to federal land management,” Curtis said. “Decisions that should reflect the values of a community too often require navigating layers of distant bureaucracy. This bill restores some balance and ensures the American flag can continue to wave from one of Utah’s most cherished peaks.”
Key Provisions of the Star-Spangled Summit Act:
- Directs the Forest Service to issue a special-use permit to Robert Collins for the placement and seasonal maintenance of a flagpole flying the U.S. flag on Kyhv Peak.
- Authorizes the Forest Service to set appropriate conditions for the care, safety, and environmental responsibility associated with the flag display.
- Provides for the permit to be reviewed, reissued, or terminated based on future circumstances or violations of terms.
Additional Readings:
Deseret News: The day before flag-burning protest, Rep. John Curtis introduces bill to raise U.S. flag on mountain top
FOX13: New bill could bring American flag back to Kyhv Peak after order to cease
For bill text, click here.