National Special Security Event

A National Special Security Event (NSSE) is declared by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assume federal control of security measures normally employed by local law enforcement. It also releases federal funding for security plans. Though not declared by DHS (which did not yet exist), the first NSSE after the September 11, 2001 attacks was the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics. More recent NSSEs include the state funeral of Ronald Reagan, the 2004 Democratic National Convention and the 2004 Republican National Convention. Major annual events, such as the NFL's Super Bowl and the State of the Union address, are automatically designated an NSSE.

Related Topics:
United States Department of Homeland Security - Law enforcement - September 11, 2001 attacks - 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics - State funeral of Ronald Reagan - 2004 Democratic National Convention - 2004 Republican National Convention - NFL's - Super Bowl - State of the Union

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In the event an NSSE is declared, the United States Secret Service is charged with employing and coordinating all federal and local agencies including the various bureaus of DHS, the FBI, and police departments to secure the venue from terrorist attacks. The declaration of an NSSE was established by President Bill Clinton in a portion of Presidential Decision Directive 62 in May 1998.

Related Topics:
United States Secret Service - FBI - Terrorist - President - Bill Clinton - Presidential Decision Directive - 1998

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Some of the security measures people can expect on the scene when they attend a major event that is declared an NSSE:

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• Heavy police and military presence
• Police forces in the area have canceled days off and leaves
• Canine teams & Bomb-sniffing dogs
• Surveillance
• Sharpshooters
• Flight restrictions around the area
• Coast Guard patrols
• Increased railroad security
• Extensive road closures
 
National Special Security Event: List of past NSSEs ►