Fla. Stat. § 250.544

Current through the 2024 Legislative Session

Section 250.544 - Limitations

Nothing in this compact shall:

(1) Expand or add to the functions of the National Guard, except with respect to the jurisdictions within which such functions may be performed.

(2) Authorize or permit National Guard units to be placed under the field command of any person not having the military or National Guard rank or status required by law for the field command position in question.

(3) Authorize or permit the use of military force by the National Guard of the State of Florida at any place outside the State of Florida except in an emergency for which the President is authorized by law to call into federal service the militia, or for any purpose for which the use of the Army or the Air Force would in the absence of express statutory authorization be prohibited under 18 U.S.C. s. 1385.

When requested to render mutual aid or exercises and training for mutual aid, the National Guard shall take such action as is necessary to provide and make available the resources covered by this compact in accordance with the terms thereof, provided that it is understood that the National Guard when rendering aid may withhold resources to the extent necessary to provide reasonable protection for the state. The National Guard shall afford to the emergency forces of any other member state, while operating within its state limits under the terms and conditions of this compact, the same powers (except those of arrest), duties, rights, and privileges as are afforded forces of the state in which they are performing emergency services. Emergency forces will continue under the command and control of the National Guard regular leaders, but the organizational units will come under the operations control of the Adjutant General of the state receiving assistance. Under no circumstances will the assisting member states use force within the boundaries of the other states without express federal authority. The assisting member states may assist in the support of a state using authorized police powers within its own boundaries but will not participate as part of the state police force without express federal authority. The assisting member state shall not be used to suppress riots or tumults or provide direct support to these activities without federal authority.

Fla. Stat. § 250.544

s.3, ch. 93-283; s.2, ch. 96-244.