Overview

This part of the lesson will provide you an overview of the homeland security course you are embarking on. It is important to note the interrelationships of the homeland security mission among the three branches of the federal government. To that end, we will briefly review the structure of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. In addition, we will study in detail in future lessons the vital role of state and local governments in homeland security, especially in the field of emergency management. At the conclusion of our weekly assignment, you will be asked to participate in a discussion forum that will pose a question that needs to be answered. I will monitor your postings daily and will provide input and feedback. Your interaction between your fellow students will also be monitored. Please be respectful of your colleagues' thought and opinions.

Key Terms

There will be key terms that will be stated throughout the course. Refer to the following definitions.

Statutory Authority: The legally granted authority bestowed on the named recipient by a legislative body that provides a government agency, board, or commission the power to perform the specific functions, expenditures, and actions described in the enacted law.

Executive Order: A declaration by the president or by a governor that has the force of law. Executive orders are usually based on existing statutory authority and require no action from the state legislature to become effective.

Presidential Directive: A form of an executive order issued by the president that establishes an action or change in the structure or function of the government.  This order generally affects the executive branch of the federal government. Under Presidents Obama and Bush, directives have been termed Homeland Security Presidential Directives (HSPDs) and National Security Presidential Directives (NSPDs). Previously, under President Clinton, they were termed Presidential Decision Directives (PDDs) and Presidential Review Directives (PRDs).

Lesson Readings & Activities

By the end of this lesson, make sure you have completed the readings and activities found in the Course Schedule.