Texas has lost a longtime leader and dedicated public servant with the death of Congressman Sylvester Turner of Houston.  As a mark of respect for his public service as state representative, mayor, and congressman, it is fitting that flags be lowered to half-staff in his honor.

Therefore, pursuant to Sections 3100.065 and 443.024(e) of the Texas Government Code and Title 4 of the U.S. Code (4 U.S.C. § 1 et seq), the flags of the State of Texas and the United States of America shall be lowered statewide to half-staff immediately in honor of the life and public service of United States Representative Sylvester Turner of the 18th Congressional District in Texas.  Flags should be returned to full-staff by sunrise on Saturday, March 8, 2025.  In addition, at the discretion of the county judge, flags in Harris County may be flown at half-staff through final interment.

Individuals, businesses, and other political subdivisions and entities are encouraged to fly their flags at half-staff for the same length of time as a mark of respect.

On behalf of Texas, the First Lady and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the Turner family in their time of mourning.  I urge all Texans to appropriately remember Sylvester Turner’s service to Texas.

Respectfully,

Greg Abbott

Governor