(May 18, 2017) – On the afternoon of Thursday, May 18th, the House approved H.R. 1892, the Honoring Hometown Heroes Act.  The legislation amends the U.S. Flag Code, affirming the ability of state governors, as well as the mayor of the District of Columbia, to order the lowering of the United States flag to half-staff in the event of the death of a first responder in the line- of- duty.  H.R. 1892, sponsored by Congressman John Larson (CT-1), was approved by the House Judiciary Committee earlier this month.  

Senator Jon Tester (MT), a co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, introduced companion legislation, S. 1108, on May 11th.