REPORT ON BILLS FAVORABLY REPORTED BY COMMITTEE

TITLE OF BILL:

AN ACT CONCERNING THE LOWERING OF THE FLAG.

SPONSORS OF BILL:

REASONS FOR BILL:

This bill would give the Governor the authority to lower the American flag and the state flag simultaneously when a member of the armed forces has been killed. Presently, the Governor has the authority to lower the Connecticut flag to half-staff for the death of a member of the armed forces.

Substitute language: replaces the word “may” with “shall”.

RESPONSE FROM ADMINISTRATION/AGENCY:

Richard Blumenthal, Attorney General: In his testimony, Mr. Blumenthal supports and encourages this legislation. State law does not specify any policy as to the Governor's lowering the national flag. Federal law provides that a Governor may proclaim that the national flag be flown at half-staff for the death of any present or former official of that state or federal government. There is no specific mention of fallen veterans. Essentially, informal protocol has governed the lowering of the national flag in these instances. SB.170 would clearly articulate state policy whenever the state flag is lowered in honor of a fallen veteran. This state policy should be simple, yet an honorable way for the state to pay that same respect to fallen members of the military.

Gerald F. Dierman, Administrator of the Sailor's Soldier's and Marine's Fund: In his testimony, Mr. Dierman respectfully supports S.B.170. This bill would allow the Governor to honor those who have died for our country thus eliminating any ambiguity with the respect to the Governor's authority.

NATURE AND SOURCES OF SUPPORT:

Tammy Ronan: Strongly supports S.B.170. Ms. Ronan, in her written testimony, expresses strong views surrounding the concept of this bill. Her life was greatly affected by the tragic death of her brother, Staff Sgt. Thomas E. Vitagliano, a patriot who gave his life in combat. Ms. Ronan encourages legislation of this bill in his memory, and for the sake of the families of our state's fallen heroes.

Chuck Berry, State Adjutant of the American Legion Department of Connecticut: In his testimony, Mr. Berry fully supports S.B.170. The American Legion Executive Committee, in January 06, passed a resolution to ask the Governor to lower the state flag and the American flag to half-staff as a sign of respect to the deceased service member's families. This would also alert the people of that state that a hero has paid the ultimate sacrifice. Mr. Berry points out that several other states already lower the national flag as well as the state flag as a sign of respect and recognition of the deceased service member.

Elwood A.D. “Woody” Lechausse, PDC, Legislative and Benefits Protection Chair, CT Department Disabled American Veterans.

Supports SB 170.

NATURE AND SOURCES OF OPPOSITION:

None.