Ball in American Legion's court after NFL sets anthem-kneeling policy

A decision about whether American Legion Post 5 in Jefferson City will resume airing broadcasts of NFL games may not be made for months, according to staff at the post.

Post members late last year unanimously voted to ban the broadcasts of NFL games and canceled its annual Super Bowl party in response to protests involving the national anthem by league personnel. A November news release announcing the decision said the changes would "remain in effect until the NFL changes its support of these protests and can only be rescinded by a majority vote of the Roscoe Enloe American Legion Post 5 membership."

The NFL apparently did change its policy Wednesday. Media outlets report the new league policy is if players don't want to stand for the national anthem, they can stay in the locker room or another location off the field until after the anthem has been performed. The NFL will fine clubs if their players are on the field and "do not stand and show respect for the flag and the Anthem," according to a policy statement.

The NFL commissioner will impose discipline on league personnel who do not adhere to the policy.

American Legion Post 5 Adjutant Don Cryderman said they would like to see several games to determine if the NFL follows through with its reported new policies before making any decisions about whether to return to airing broadcasts.

He said the post's executive board is to meet the first week of June, and it is not known whether the board will take up the issue this far before the start of football season.