Why are flags in Kansas being lowered to half-staff this week?

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Flags are to be lowered across Kansas this week starting on Monday.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued an order on Dec. 30 to lower flags across the state to half-staff in honor of former President Jimmy Carter who passed away at the age of 100 on Dec. 29. This order follows another issued by President Joe Biden to honor the 39th president of the nation.

“Former President Jimmy Carter was a truly moral man," Kelly said. "His innate humanity, his humility, his devotion to serving his community and his country, and his belief that the world could live in peace is the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.”

Kelly's order takes effect as of Dec. 30 and runs through to sunset on Jan. 28, 2025. Biden ordered a National Day of Mourning for Carter on Jan. 9, 2025.

Carter is recognized for being awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor. His work to advocate for democracy and human rights, along with social development initiatives, were also major policy points of his presidency. You can learn more about his service in the position by clicking here.

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