The Edison, New Jersey, Township Council has ignited backlash from residents following the adoption of new rules restricting public behavior at council meetings, including a ban on the use of American flags as “props” during public comments.

The new measures, which also limit speaking time and impose strict rules on decorum, have been met with strong opposition from community members.

According to a report by My Central Jersey, the ordinance restricts individuals addressing the council to four minutes and eliminates rebuttal comments.

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It also prohibits offensive or abusive language, disruptive behavior, and the use of costumes during council meetings.

The most contentious rule, however, is the ban on displaying the American flag, the U.S. Constitution, or other items deemed to be “props” while addressing the council.

At last week’s council meeting, residents voiced their frustration with the new rules, accusing the council of stifling free expression and limiting criticism.

Resident Joel Bassoff challenged the ordinance by holding up an American flag while speaking. He was immediately interrupted by Council President Nishith Patel, who informed him that he had forfeited his time for violating the new rules.

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When Bassoff persisted, he was removed from the meeting.

BREAKING: Edison, NJ Town Council bans American flags at meetings.

An angry resident protests by waving his American flag. Security removes him. pic.twitter.com/UJOhXVAuDE

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) December 2, 2024

The incident drew sharp criticism from other residents.

“To consider the American flag and the Constitution a prop when someone raises it is an insult to what the flag is, what the flag stands for, and what this country is,” said resident Maryann Hennessey. “For you to consider the use of the American flag a prop is disgusting.”

Another resident, Sue Malone-Barber, accused the council of being overly controlling, calling the meetings a “three-ring circus.”

She expressed disbelief over the decision to ban the flag, saying, “Residents won’t forget how they were made to feel and how things were handled. Flags, really a prop? You going to throw me out?”

Residents like Bassoff also accused the council of using the new rules to silence criticism over issues such as wasteful spending and the handling of community concerns.

Malone-Barber further criticized the council’s approach as “ludicrous, rude, and juvenile,” adding, “It’s juvenile to fight this war, you’re losing. It’s just making people more agitated, more determined to do something to provoke getting thrown out. Let it go. It’s a waste of taxpayer time.”

The backlash highlights growing frustration among Edison residents with what they see as unnecessary restrictions on their ability to express grievances during public meetings.

As tensions rise, it remains to be seen whether the council will amend or rescind the controversial rules in response to public outcry.

For now, residents have made it clear that they view the ban on the American flag and other symbolic items as an affront to the principles of free speech and patriotism, signaling that the issue is far from resolved.

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