The two verbs are virtual opposites. To prescribe something is to recommend or authorize it: The doctor prescribed a course of antibiotics; The laws prescribe a strict penalty for this offence. To proscribe something is to ban it: The import of pornographic material was proscribed by law; The new nationalist party was proscribed.
The stars represent the states of Pohnpei, Kosrae, Yap, and Chuuk. The blue field is said to represent the Pacific Ocean. Effective date: 30 November 1978.