Flags at half-mast: yes, it's legal

[elfs]

I've seen a couple of posts recently arguing about whether or not the Presidential Order Monday ordering that flags be flown at half-mast in honor of the Pope is legal. It is. USC 4.7(m) states that "In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with law."

The Pope qualifies as a "foreign dignitary."