Continuity of Government: Current Federal Arrangements and the Future

RS21089 -- Continuity of Government: Current Federal Arrangements and the Future

Updated August 5, 2005

Summary

Continuity of government refers to the continued functioning of constitutional government under all circumstances. Arrangements for the continued operation of the federal government in the event of a national emergency or catastrophe are specified in law, policy, and plans, some of which are not public information, given their sensitive, contingent status. This report reviews the public record concerning federal continuity of government arrangements. It will be updated to reflect significant developments.