Emergency Authority
Powers that apply in a declared emergency.
Declaration
A state or federal official with authority may declare an emergency when there is a serious threat to life, safety or order, such as a disaster or major attack.
Powers
In an emergency, agencies may close areas, direct the movement of people and vehicles, take control of resources for emergency use, and set temporary rules.
Limits
- Emergency powers last only as long as the emergency.
- They must be proportionate to the threat.
- Constitutional rights still apply.
- The emergency and its orders must be recorded and reviewed afterwards.