The Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 is signed into law. Prior to this act, there was no comprehensive legislation covering disaster relief. This act establishes a “basic framework for preparations to minimize the effects of an attack on our civilian population, and to deal with the immediate emergency conditions which such an attack would create.” — Statement by the President Upon Signing the Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950
Public Law 920: The Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 sets forth “the policy and intent of Congress to provide a plan of civil defense for the protection of life and property in the United States from attack. It is further declared to be the policy and intent of Congress that this responsibility for civil defense shall be vested primarily in the several States and their political subdivisions. The Federal Government shall provide necessary coordination and guidance; shall be responsible for the operations of the Federal Civil Defense Administration as set forth in this Act; and shall provide necessary assistance as hereinafter authorized.”
Date of event: January 12, 1951