NASHVILLE (AP) — Gov. Bill Haslam has said one of the main points of creating a new state logo is that Tennessee can't trademark its flag or seal.

But now the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is rejecting state's application to register the new logo on the basis that it is "primary geographically descriptive."

The new square logo featuring the white letters TN on a red field above a blue bar has drawn criticism for its $46,000 price tag and for being simplistic. Haslam has repeatedly had to try to bat down the impression that he is trying to replace state symbols like the tri-star on the state flag.

The state has six months to appeal, and Haslam spokesman David Smith said the administration is reviewing the decision.