When can the president order the US flags to be flown at half staff?

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Following recent national tragedies, some viewers have asked about what is allowed when it comes to ordering American flags to fly at half-staff and whether a president can lower them for anyone.

Let’s verify the rules. • The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) • U.S. Congress • U.S. Code

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)

U.S. Congress

U.S. Code

Can a president order the flags to lower for anyone?

Yes, a president can order flags to be flown at half-staff for anyone.

According to the GSA, American flags are traditionally flown at half-staff in times of national mourning, following major tragedies, or in observance of remembrance days. They are also lowered in the event of the death of government and military officials.

The U.S. Flag Code,