The former first lady-turned-senator has joined as a co-sponsor of Bennett's flag-protection bill that allows the government to fine or imprison someone who intentionally defaces or destroys the U.S. flag.

Bennett's bill takes a different approach than a measure pushed by Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, which proposes a constitutional amendment to protect the flag. Supporters of Hatch's resolution, which has 57 Senate co-sponsors, argue that an amendment is needed to ensure courts don't strike down a statute protecting the flag.

The American Legion, which backs the constitutional amendment, this week blasted Clinton, who is a rumored 2008 presidential candidate, for sponsoring the bill instead of backing the amendment.

"In deference to the senator, she may be sincere in her quest for a law, but she is sincerely wrong," said American Legion National Commander Thomas Bock. "The remedy she has chosen, a statute without an enabling amendment to the U.S. Constitution, is a long road to a dead-end."

The veterans group already has shown its antipathy to Bennett's push for a statute to protect the flag and his opposition to the constitutional amendment. In 1996, Bennett was left out the Legion's National Convention in Salt Lake City, particularly from a session on protecting the flag.

Clinton spokesman Philippe Reines says Clinton's backing comes after talking with veterans who want the flag protected.

"Burning or destroying an American flag is a despicable act that disrespects the sacrifices of our brave veterans and soldiers who fought to protect the very freedom of speech that flag burners exploit," Clinton said in a June statement. "I find this abhorrent and will endeavor to make sure our laws reflect this."

Bennett, who doesn't support tweaking the Constitution when a statutory change will suffice, welcomed Clinton's support.

"Protecting the flag certainly isn't a partisan position," Bennett spokesman Mary Jane Collipriest said.

Neither of the two Utah senators' bills has gained much momentum since their introduction. Hatch's bill has been stuck in committee since April and Bennett's bill hasn't moved since October when he re-introduced it.

tburr@sltrib.com