Rep. Kennedy’s Bill to Restore a 22-Year Patriotic Tradition on Kyhv Peak Passes House

Washington, D.C. - Today, the House passed Congressman Mike Kennedy's (UT-03) Star-Spangled Summit Act (H.R. 4684) , which directs the U.S. Forest Service to issue a special-use permit allowing the American flag to continue flying on Kyhv Peak above Provo, Utah.

In 2000, Scoutmaster Robert Collins led his troop on a hike to Kyhv Peak, near Provo, and proudly raised an American flag at its summit. What began as a patriotic gesture by the scouts evolved into an annual tradition, engendering national pride and bringing the Provo community together for more than two decades.

In 2022, conflict arose when USFS personnel confronted Mr. Collins regarding the flag, citing agency policies that prohibit the construction or placement of any structures, including flagpoles, on National Forest System lands without a permit. H.R. 4684 would resolve this impasse by requiring USFS to issue a special use permit for the placement and maintenance of a flagpole displaying the American flag at Kyhv Peak.

"Mr. Collins' trek is a powerful opportunity for my community members to honor the ideals upon which our nation was built and those who have bravely defended them," said Congressman Kennedy. "After years of bureaucratic delay, this legislation restores what should never have been lost, ensuring the flag once again rises above Kyhv Peak as a lasting symbol of independence, unity and liberty for all of Utah Valley."

"The Stars and Stripes stands as a timeless symbol of our nation's history, sacrifice and enduring promise." said Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Bruce Westerman. " Flying the American flag atop Kyhv Peak honors the freedoms of our nation and the brave Americans who have defended them. I commend Rep. Kennedy for advancing this timely legislation and for reaffirming the patriotism and values that unite our country as America celebrates its 250th birthday."

"I am grateful to the good men and women that have served our country and defended our freedoms that the flag represents." said Robert Collins. "I am grateful we have public servants that feel the same way. The flying of the American flag is one way to show this appreciation and convey the love I have for this country. It makes me happy to think of the flag flying proudly atop Kyhv peak."

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Watch Rep. Kennedy debate H.R. 4684 on the House Floor here.

Read the full bill text here.