Why Minnesota Flags Were Lowered
In honor of Justice Esther M. Tomljanovich.
When the Minnesota Half-Staff Order Began and Ended
Use the exact end boundary above. A flag may return to full-staff at sunset, noon, a stated clock time, or another named event. If the end is not confirmed, open the source before acting.
Where the Minnesota Half-Staff Order Applied
Minnesota statewide as specified in the order
- Facilities
- State
- U.S. flag
- Affected
- State flag
- Affected
- Private display
- Advisory
What This Half-Staff Order Means for Flag Owners
Follow the Locations Named in This Order
An order can cover federal property, all state facilities, one building, or another named place. Do not expand a limited order beyond the stored scope.
Return Flags to Full-Staff at the Stated Time
Use the end date and boundary above. Before raising the flag, confirm that a newer federal or state half-staff order has not taken effect.
Check for a Newer Half-Staff Order
This detail page preserves one directive. It does not make an old order current, so use today’s status page for the latest operational answer.
Official Source and Evidence for This Half-Staff Order
Governor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, in honor and remembrance of former Justice Esther M. Tomljanovich, “Justice T.” *“Justice T was more than just a talented jurist; she was a trailblazer for women, lawyers, and students throughout her life,” *said Governor Walz.* “She led with kindness, warmth, and generosity, serving the state and Minnesota Supreme Court with pride. Gwen and I extend our thoughts to her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.”* Justice Tomljanovich was raised in Minnesota’s Iron Range before attending St. Paul College of Law and beginning her legal career. She later worked as assistant revisor of statutes and head revisor. She was appointed a judge in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District in 1977 and served eight years as associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Her appointments by Governor Rudy Perpich made her the second woman judge in the state and the third woman on the Minnesota Supreme Court. She continued to be an advocate and leader, creating the Minnesota Women Lawyers group, serving on the Committee on the Status of Women, helping advance equal pay for equal work, and making women a protected class under the Minnesota Human Rights Act. Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Justice Tomljanovich’s legacy. The Governor's proclamation can be found here https://mn.gov/governor/assets/08.11.26%20Former%20Justice%20Tomljanovich%20FAHS_tcm1055-763092.pdf. Source: https://mn.gov/governor/assets/08.11.26%20Former%20Justice%20Tomljanovich%20FAHS_tcm1055-763092.pdf
The linked government page remains the authoritative version.
Minnesota Half-Staff Order Questions
Is the Honoring Justice Esther M. Tomljanovich order still active?
This record is marked ended. Its stored effective period begins August 11, 2026 and ends August 11, 2026. Check the current status page before changing a flag.
Does this Minnesota half-staff order apply to homes and businesses?
Only if the notice says so. Government orders usually direct named public facilities and may separately invite private citizens, businesses, and organizations to participate. Check “Private display” in the scope above and read the source when it is not stated.
Which flags and locations did this order cover?
Use the scope cards above. They separate the facility type, geographic area, U.S. flag, state flag, and private-display guidance retained from the notice.
Where can I verify this half-staff order?
Use the official-source link on this page. The government notice remains authoritative if it differs from this normalized record.