Welcome to

The Confederate flag is still on display in a prominent place in Florida’s Capitol. As Matt Galka tells us, Florida state Senators could be removing it entirely soon.

It’s not the most noticeable symbol at the Capitol. But for State Senator Arthenia Joyner, the Confederate Flag on the Senate’s seal became plain as day over the summer.

“I’m wearing this seal on my lapel, and there it was. I don’t think many of us had really taken a real look and had seen what those flags were,” said Sen. Joyner (D-Tampa).

Joyner reached out to the Senate President following a racially motivated South Carolina shooting over the summer requesting a discussion about the possible removal of the Confederate flag from the Senate seal.

The Senate rules panel voted unanimously to remove the flag Thursday.

“It’s time for us to have the seal be consistent with our values. We can’t revise history and choose which moments in our history to forget, but we can choose what we highlight in our seal that’s just and right,” said Sen. Darren Soto (D-Kissimmee).

The seal is seen everywhere in the Capitol from doors to stationary and if a majority of the Senate votes to change it, an unknown cost will come with it.

A different Confederate symbol is located in the Capitol Rotunda, with a seal representing one of the five flags that have flown over the state.

Joyner’s rule change wouldn’t cover the rotunda symbol, but a bill filed for 2016 would.

“Senator Thompson’s bill probably includes every facet that deals with the public display of the Confederate flag in the Capitol, both on the grounds and within the building,” said Sen. Joyner.

It was recommended that the rebel flag on the Senate seal be replaced with Florida’s state flag.

The full Senate will vote on the rule change during 2016’s legislative session.  A two-thirds majority is needed for it to change.