A state of emergency is an official government declaration that expands the authorities of the executive branch of government and reduces the usual checks and balances. A national state of emergency gives the president broad powers, while a statewide one increases the authority of the governor.
States of emergency can be triggered for many reasons, including weather emergencies (like tornadoes or floods), chemical and biological threats, mass evacuations or public health crises like disease outbreaks. The state of emergency can last for different periods depending on the type of emergency and how it’s managed.
State legislatures and state executive officers may also have their own statutory definitions for what constitutes a state of emergency. For example, the Oklahoma state constitution requires a vote of two-thirds of the members of the House to approve an emergency declaration. Other states have stricter rules for imposing emergencies, including requiring a three-fifths vote of the House or legislative approval.
In general, a state of emergency is meant to provide the tools necessary to respond to a crisis and quickly return normalcy. Whether the cause is natural or man-made, state/local governments and emergency managers need quick access to resources to protect people and property. During a State of Emergency, elected officials can activate a variety of State and federal assistance programs. These include personnel, funds, equipment and the use of State emergency response protocols. Private agencies such as the Red Cross and the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) can be brought in to fulfill critical missions.
About the Author
