Current Federal Half-Staff Orders
As of the most recent presidential proclamation, flags on federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels are ordered to half staff to honor specific losses or national observances. The White House issues these directives under 4 U.S.C. § 7(f), and the General Services Administration coordinates implementation across civilian agencies. The current order typically specifies a start and end date, with flags returning to full staff at sunset on the final day. For the latest presidential orders, see the White House website.
The President may also order half-staff display upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and other officials as a mark of respect to their memory. Proclamation details include the name of the individual, the position held, and the specific dates for the half-staff period. These orders are published in the Federal Register and distributed to all federal departments and agencies. The Federal Register publishes these proclamations officially.
State and Local Half-Staff Directives
State governors issue separate half-staff orders for their own jurisdictions, often in response to the death of a state official, a first responder killed in the line of duty, or a local tragedy. These orders apply to state capitol buildings, public schools, and other state-owned facilities, and they may differ in timing from federal orders. The National Governors Association tracks these directives and provides a summary of current state-level orders.
In addition to governors, mayors and county executives can order flags at half staff on municipal buildings and public spaces within their jurisdictions. These local orders are typically shorter in duration and tied to specific community events or losses. The National League of Cities provides guidance on flag etiquette for municipal governments. Local governments often coordinate with state offices to ensure consistency in observance periods.
How to Verify Today’s Half-Staff Status
The quickest way to confirm whether flags are at half staff today is to check the official government source for the relevant jurisdiction. The White House website maintains a dedicated page for current presidential proclamations, including half-staff orders. The U.S. Flag Code and the Government Publishing Office provide the full text of these directives.
For real-time updates, many state government homepages feature a prominent alert banner when half-staff orders are active. The American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars also publish summaries of current flag orders based on official sources. These organizations cross-reference presidential and gubernatorial proclamations to provide a consolidated public record.