A new proclamation is not always needed before flags are lowered. Standing federal rules already prescribe half-staff observances for the deaths of certain current and former public officials.
Section 7(m) of Title 4 of the U.S. Code and Presidential Proclamation 3044 establish standing periods for federal flags. A later presidential proclamation may broaden the locations or extend the dates, but it does not create every observance from scratch.
These periods apply to the federal flag displays identified by the governing rule. A separate presidential order can provide a broader or longer national observance.
Proclamation 3044 provides more specific federal-facility rules. In the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area, federal flags are lowered on the day of death and the following day. In the member's state, congressional district, territory, or commonwealth, federal flags are lowered from the day of death until interment.
“Member of Congress” includes a Senator, Representative, Delegate, and the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
The President may direct a broader observance, including flags at the White House, federal facilities nationwide, military posts, naval vessels, and U.S. facilities abroad. The proclamation's stated scope and end time control that additional observance.
The standing language identifies federal buildings, grounds, and vessels. It also serves as guidance that state, local, business, and private flag displays often follow voluntarily. For an operational or ceremonial decision, verify the applicable federal, state, or local direction.
When Mast has confirmed the death of a sitting Member of Congress, it may display the standing D.C. and home-jurisdiction observances while monitoring for an official presidential or state notice. If a later order changes the scope or dates, Mast can show that order alongside or in place of the statutory record.