The commission's recommendation includes a call for a vote next spring to let the public choose between the new proposal and the 1894 state flag. The recommendation goes to legislators when the session starts in January.
Legislators can ignore or approve any part of it.
They would also set an election date. Commissioner Jack Reed of Tupelo said Mississippi needs a flag that represents all its citizens. People who oppose the 1894 flag say it's a reminder of slavery, segregation and oppression. People who support it say it represents heritage and history. Twelve commissioners voted for the recommendation and one opposed it because of the portion calling for a vote of the public.