Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB8694

Introduced
6/11/24  

Caption

To amend title 4, United States Code, to permit the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff in the event of the death of the Mayor of the District of Columbia.

Impact

If enacted, HB 8694 would result in a minor but symbolically significant change in federal protocol concerning the display of the national flag. Currently, the flag is permitted to be flown at half-staff for a limited set of individuals, primarily high-ranking national figures and state governors. By including the Mayor of the District of Columbia in this provision, the bill enhances the ceremonial recognition of local leadership, thereby fostering a sense of unity and respect for the role of local governance within the federal framework.

Summary

House Bill 8694 aims to amend title 4 of the United States Code by permitting the national flag to be flown at half-staff in the event of the death of the Mayor of the District of Columbia. This legislative proposal seeks to formally recognize the significance of the office of the Mayor and extend national honors to local governance by allowing for a symbol of mourning on a federal level. This recognition reflects the value of local leaders in the context of national identity and community governance.

Contention

Debates surrounding this bill may stem from differing views on the symbolism associated with the half-staff tradition. Proponents argue that the Mayor's position is vital to the District and deserves the same respect afforded to other high-ranking officials. Critics might argue that the half-staff privilege should be reserved for those with national significance, questioning the precedent this bill sets for local officials. Such discussions could touch on broader themes of governance, representation, and the relationship between local and federal authority.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB4013

To amend title 4, United States Code, to permit the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff in the event of the death of the Mayor of the District of Columbia.

US HB8133

To amend title 10, United States Code, to permit the Secretary concerned to furnish mortuary services in the case of certain citizens of the United States who die outside of the United States, and for other purposes.

US HB9401

To amend title 4, United States Code, to ensure that a funeral honors detail recites the 13 Folds of Honor when presenting a flag of the United States in connection with the death of a member of the Armed Forces or veteran.

US HB5758

To amend title 31, United States Code, to reimburse employees of the Federal Government and the District of Columbia, Federal contractors, and the States for certain costs incurred as a result of a Government shutdown, and for other purposes.

US HR270

Removing James E. Boasberg, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, for failure to remain in good behavior pursuant to section 1 of article III of the Constitution.

US HB884

To prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia and to repeal the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022.

US HB6866

District of Columbia Special Elections Home Rule Act

US HB7672

To amend title 40, United States Code, to permit commercial filmmaking and photography on the United States Capitol grounds, and for other purposes.

US HB8233

To amend the USAID Branding Modernization Act to require the sole use of United States flags and logos on articles of United States foreign assistance, and for other purposes.

US HB1774

To amend title 23, United States Code, to withhold certain apportionment funds from the District of Columbia unless the Mayor of the District of Columbia removes the phrase Black Lives Matter from the street symbolically designated as Black Lives Matter Plaza, redesignates such street as Liberty Plaza, and removes such phrase from each website, document, and other material under the jurisdiction of the District of Columbia.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.