Who has the responsibility to provide defense support to civil authorities when the actions are considered legal?

The responsibility to provide defense support to civil authorities falls primarily to the Secretary of Defense. This role is essential during emergencies when military resources and capabilities may be needed to assist civilian agencies in responding to disasters or threats. The Secretary of Defense coordinates military assets to ensure they are available to support civilian authorities, particularly when national security is involved or when the scale of the emergency exceeds local or state capabilities.

While the President of the United States holds ultimate authority and can direct military actions, it is the Secretary of Defense who operationalizes this support. FEMA plays a critical role in emergency management, but it acts within the framework established by the Department of Defense. Local law enforcement typically handles initial response at a community level but does not possess military capabilities.

By centralizing the authority under the Secretary of Defense, there is a clear chain of command and coordination for defense support during emergencies, ensuring legal and orderly assistance to civil authorities.