To Mark D.C. Flag Day, Norton Celebrates New D.C. Statehood Bill Cosponsors, Introduces Flag Bill to Honor Deceased D.C. Mayors

June 14, 2019

Contact: Jack Miller

To Mark D.C. Flag Day, Norton Celebrates New D.C. Statehood Bill Cosponsors, Introduces Flag Bill to Honor Deceased D.C. Mayors

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In recognition of National Flag Day, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) released a picture with their respective flags, the 1st state and the 51st state, celebrating the record number of cosponsors in the Senate (32) and House (213) on their bill to make the District of Columbia the 51st state.  Norton also introduced her bill that would permit the United States flag to be flown at half-staff after the death of a D.C. Mayor, in the same manner as it is now flown for governors of states and territories.

“Flag day this year has special significance for the District, which is close to a successful House vote to become the 51st state,” said Norton.  “I also note that approaching Flag Day, there has been a pick up on House Members signing on as cosponsors, bringing us to 213.  At the same time, we continue on our second track to complete D.C. equality rule by introducing a bill that would allow the country to recognize the death of a D.C. Mayor, the District’s chief executive officer, by flying the nation’s flag at half-staff.  Current law provides this recognition for the governors of the states and territories.  The Congress has the authority to pass our Free and Equal Series of bills, including today’s flag bill without statehood.  While pursuing statehood, we intend to pursue all roads that lead to equal citizenship for D.C. residents.”

Norton’s full introductory statement on the bill can be found here.

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