Terrorism and the Military's Role in Domestic Crisis Management: Background and Issues for Congress

• NCJ Number: 191700
• Author(s): Jeffrey D. Brake
• Date Published: April 2001
• Length: 26 pages
• Sale Source: Library of Congress
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: CRS Report for Congress, April 19, 2001

Annotation

This paper examines current legislation and policies that dictate the military's role when supporting law enforcement agencies responding to a domestic terrorism crisis.

Abstract

The United States faces threats that range from intercontinental ballistic missiles to the use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) by terrorists. Some studies have concluded that the United States is becoming increasingly vulnerable to terrorism. While incidents have decreased, the attacks have become more lethal (Figure 1). Some experts believe groups possess more potent weapons and greater capabilities to use them. Experts believe that because of the long-term threat of an attack, the United States needs to be fully prepared to either deter or interdict an attempted attack. U.S. Government policy in response to the threat is derived from presidential decision directives. The directives guide the nation's security structure and delineate Federal agency crisis roles when responding to a terrorist event. The National Security Council coordinates the national response to threats or acts of domestic terrorism (Figure 2). The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) takes steps necessary to use Federal resources and support to assist State and local authorities. The FBI manages the crisis from the Joint Operations Center (Figure 3). The Defense Department can be called in to help the FBI with providing technical support to law enforcement officials, apprehending those responsible, restoring law and order, and abating the consequences of a terrorist act. Various laws and powers allow the military to perform a variety of tasks, including searching for evidence, disposing of a terrorist device, and training response personnel. Many experts believe the United States would be well served if the Defense Department could employ its full range of capabilities. The creation of a homeland defense would go far in protecting the country against acts of terrorism domestically. In an oversight capacity, Congress may decide to review current statutes and other legislation affecting terrorism policy so that cooperation between Federal agencies is increased. Notes