Texas flags lowered

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott orders flags to fly at half-staff to honor Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Texas flags fly at half-staff Thursday across the state in memory of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who served Texas' 18th Congressional District and chaired the Congressional Black Caucus.

"Rep. Jackson Lee was a dedicated public servant and her contributions to the state of Texas are undoubtedly significant." – Gov. Greg Abbott, in a statement announcing the half-staff order

Jackson Lee, 74, served in Congress for nearly 30 years until her death on July 19, 2023. She was also a member of the Houston City Council and unsuccessfully ran for Houston mayor in 2022.

The length of time flags are flown at half-staff is stipulated for various government officials by presidential proclamation: from 30 days for a current or former president, to one day for a member of the House of Representatives.

According to the US Department of Veteran Affairs, flags should also be flown at half-staff on specific holidays: Memorial Day (until noon), Peace Officers Memorial Day, Patriot Day, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, and National Firefighters Memorial Day.

The president may also order half-staff to commemorate the deaths of other officials, former officials, or foreign dignitaries, as well as tragic events.