scope:

Purpose: In accordance with the authority in DoD Directive (DoDD) 5111.1; the direction in the November 30, 2006, Deputy Secretary of Defense Memorandum; DoDD 3025.18; and applicable laws, this issuance establishes policy, assigns responsibilities, and provides guidance and direction for public health and medical incidents and emergency planning, preparedness, and response regarding Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA).

APPLICABILITY. This issuance:

a. Applies to OSD, the Military Departments, the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Staff, the Combatant Commands, the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the DoD Field Activities, and all other organizational entities within DoD (referred to collectively in this issuance as the "DoD Components").

b. Unless expressly stated otherwise, this issuance should not be construed to rescind any existing authorities of the DoD Component heads, Combatant Commanders, or responsible DoD personnel to provide DSCA in accordance with existing laws, other DoD issuances, and Secretary of Defense-approved orders.