Simon addresses comparisons to flags in Somalia [RAW]

The base design of flag F1953 was compared to flags in Somalia, specifically flags from the Puntland and Jubaland regions, which sparked criticism online leading up to Tuesday's meeting. However, some on the commission noted many flags are similar to flags from other countries. During the meeting, Secretary of State Steve Simon addressed the commission, saying the Iowa flag is similar to the French flag, but he doesn't hear people saying the French are taking over Iowa. He also compared the Texas flag to the Chile flag. He added that if through hours of work to come up with a state flag, it may resemble a flag from another part of the world, then "I think that's OK."