Executive Order 13603: What Preppers Need to Know

In an era where the unexpected can strike at any moment, preppers—those who prepare for emergencies by stockpiling supplies and honing survival skills—remain vigilant about potential threats. One significant piece of legislation that often catches the attention of preppers is Executive Order 13603. Understanding this executive order, its implications, and how to prepare for its enforcement is crucial for anyone committed to preparedness.

What is Executive Order 13603?

Executive Order 13603, titled "National Defense Resources Preparedness," was signed by President Barack Obama on March 16, 2012. The primary purpose of this order is to ensure that the United States can effectively respond to national emergencies, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other significant disruptions.

In essence, Executive Order 13603 grants the federal government extensive powers to mobilize and control resources during a national emergency. This includes the authority to:

• Allocate materials, services, and facilities for national defense.

• Ensure the availability of essential resources, such as food, water, and medical supplies.

• Control the distribution of critical resources to support national security and emergency preparedness.

The Connection to Martial Law

One of the most concerning aspects for preppers is the potential enforcement of Executive Order 13603 under Martial Law. Martial Law is a state of emergency where the military takes control of normal civilian functions, and civil liberties may be suspended. If such a situation arises, the government can invoke Executive Order 13603 to take drastic measures to manage the crisis.

In addition to the Executive Order 13603, in the year 2020, former President Donald Trump also issued an Executive Order following the World Health Organization announcement that COVID would become a pandemic. Here's what the Executive Order stated:

"The Secretary has delegated the authority of the President conferred by section 102 of the Act to prevent hoarding of health and medical resources necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19 within the United States, including the authority to prescribe conditions with respect to the accumulation of such resources, and to designate any material as a scarce material, or as a material the supply of which would be threatened by persons accumulating the material either in excess of the reasonable demands of business, personal, or home consumption, or for the purpose of resale at prices in excess of prevailing market prices."

In other words, not only were water and food supplies illegal to hoard, but also medical supplies needed to combat the pandemic. My guess is that you didn't know about this...right?

What Happens When Executive Order 13603 is Enforced?

When enforced, Executive Order 13603 allows the government to:

1. Control Transportation: The government can take control of all transportation systems, including personal vehicles, to ensure the efficient movement of essential goods and services.

2. Seize Property: Federal authorities can requisition private property, including homes, land, and resources, deemed necessary for national defense.

3. Allocate Resources: The government can direct the distribution of food, water, fuel, and other critical resources to ensure they are available where needed most. This means the Federal government can confiscate and re-distribute all portable water, food, and whatever resources are necessary to protect the United States during a state of emergency. So yes, they can go door to door, search your property for these items, seize them, and leave you without anything for yourself. If anything, you would have to "get in line" with everyone else and have the same food, water, supplies, rationed out to you by the government. Again, this would occur under a state of emergency but under normal circumstances, what we own remains ours. Mind blowing...right?

4. Compel Labor: Individuals can be required to work in support of national defense efforts, which could include manufacturing, construction, and other essential services.

The Role of FEMA

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plays a pivotal role in the enforcement of Executive Order 13603. FEMA is responsible for coordinating the federal response to disasters and emergencies. Under this executive order, FEMA can:

• Oversee the allocation and distribution of resources.

• Manage the requisition of private property.

• Coordinate with state and local governments to implement emergency measures.

State vs. Federal Control

Every state has its own statues addressing the procedures that will take place if martial law is declared in their state. The Governor of each state is given the authority to make such a decision. While FEMA has the overarching authority during a national emergency, each state can also organize its response efforts. State governments can work with FEMA to manage resources and enforce regulations. However, in extreme cases, federal authority can supersede state control to ensure a unified and effective response.

Non-Compliance and Its Consequences

If Martial Law is declared and Executive Order 13603 is enforced, non-compliance can have serious consequences. Refusing to cooperate with government directives, such as not allowing officials to search your home or seize commodities, can result in:

• Legal Penalties: You could face fines, imprisonment, or other legal actions for obstructing emergency measures.

• Forced Compliance: The government can use force to gain access to your property and resources if necessary.

• Reduced Access to Resources: Non-compliance may result in being cut off from essential supplies and services provided by the government during the emergency.

What You Should Do Now

Given the potential impact of Executive Order 13603, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to prepare:

1. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current events and understand how national emergencies could lead to the enforcement of this executive order. Awareness is the first step in effective preparation. At the same time,

2. Build Strong Networks: Connect with local prepper communities and establish networks for mutual support. In a crisis, having a reliable support system can make a significant difference.

3. Diversify Supplies: Stockpile essential supplies but avoid hoarding all your resources in one place. Consider distributing them across multiple locations to reduce the risk of total loss if your property is requisitioned.

4. Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your legal rights under Martial Law and Executive Order 13603. Knowing what the government can and cannot do can help you navigate the situation more effectively.

5. Plan for Compliance: While it may be unsettling, planning for potential compliance with government directives can help you avoid severe penalties. Consider what resources you can reasonably part with and how you can maintain your essential needs.

6. Keep Quiet: Don’t tell your neighbors what you have stockpiled, what you plan to store, or where you’re keeping it. To prevent your neighbors from speaking out against you to legal enforcement, it’s better to keep them in the dark regarding your preparedness. Loose lips sink ships!

Conclusion

Executive Order 13603 represents a significant expansion of federal powers during a national emergency, with profound implications for preppers. By understanding the order, its potential enforcement under Martial Law, and the role of FEMA, you can better prepare for such scenarios. Stay informed, build resilient networks, diversify your supplies, and plan for potential compliance to navigate these challenging situations effectively.

Preparedness is about more than just having supplies—it's about having the knowledge and strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones when the unexpected happens. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay prepared.