NCJ Number
192515
Date Published
2000
Length
64 pages
Annotation
This report provides information on Federal programs and funding that deal with terrorist attacks.
Abstract
The first 6 to 8 hours following a terrorist attack are the most critical for public safety. This is the period before the arrival of any Federal resources, so the initial emergency response depends on local personnel and equipment--the first responders. The chain of command flows directly from the local incident commander who notifies the local Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) field office. FBI headquarters is then contacted and assumes command of Federal response efforts. The FBI is currently the lead Federal coordinator of preparedness and response to terrorism. To enhance the capability of local responders, available Federal dollars and programs must be utilized to the fullest extent possible in order to ensure minimal casualties. After contact with the FBI is made, several other Federal agencies will be on the scene, including the Departments of Defense, Justice, Health and Human Services, and Energy; the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and the Environmental Protection Agency. A lack of coordination among programs has been a primary problem with Federal operation for preparedness and response to terrorist attacks. The most obvious difficulty arising from this is conflict between the agencies. The national medical system has been identified as inadequate and unprepared for terrorism. The Federal Government has requested increased funding for counterterrorism efforts and produced several documents aimed at streamlining its efforts. These efforts address the problems of technological warfare such as cyber terrorism and bioterrorism. The resources that are currently or will soon be available to State and local governments in the areas of planning, training and exercises, equipment, intelligence, and medical services are listed. Appendix