Reading Room Document

Law Relating to Civil Disturbances

This document is a memorandum prepared by Mary Lawton summarizing the law and practice relating to the use of the military in civil disturbance situations. It outlines the legal authority for federal use of the military in civil disturbances, including the use of federal troops in states, territories, and the District of Columbia, as well as the power of the military when called into service. The document also discusses the Interdepartmental Action Plan for handling civil disturbances, the use of troops in strike situations, and the enforcement of federal laws. The conclusion emphasizes that the legal issues surrounding civil disturbances are diverse and may raise questions under other, more general, laws.

January 6, 1975