In response to inquiries we have received, the Office of the Secretary of State would like to explain the recent implementation of Public Law 110-41. This federal law authorizes the Governor of a State to order that the U.S. flag be flown at half staff in the event of the death of a member of the Armed Forces from that State who dies while serving on active duty. To further honor the sacrifice of this individual, the Governor has ordered both the United States Flag and the Maryland State Flag flown at half staff.
State Flag Protocol​​​​​

Different Flag Status Situations

General Information

The Maryland flag should be flown at half-staff:

• Whenever the U.S. flag is so flown;
• When so ordered by county and municipal government officials on all property under their jurisdiction; and
• On Memorial Day, when the U.S. flag and Maryland flag are displayed at half-staff until noon only; then they are hoisted to the top of the staff.