That penalty sounds severe, but I can see where she's coming from.
In this country freedom of speech is protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution, and that even extends to burning the flag.
However, I think a lot of people would think twice about doing that if they realized how many millions have died to defend your rights.
If you wanna see quicker results, try going to Japan. Protest some anime you don't like burn a Japanese flag, and see how fast you get deported or thrown in jail.
Ask Paul McCartney, who got busted for weed back in 1980. Had to cancel a Japanese tour, 12 days in jail, THEN deported. Just for possession of weed. Burning their flag might have had more serious consequences.