WHEREAS, in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks upon our nation, it is critical that South Carolina be vigilant in addressing the threat that terrorism poses to the safety and well-being of our citizens and visitors; and

WHEREAS, as the State's chief executive and commander-in-chief, it is the Governor's responsibility and first priority to protect the citizens of South Carolina from threats and acts of terrorism and to promote initiatives to increase our State's security; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to take appropriate measures in an effort to detect, prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to violence or threats of violence to the person or property of citizens of the State of South Carolina from terrorist activities, and to maintain peace, tranquility and good order in the State; and

WHEREAS, it is critical that the precautions necessary to organize efforts to protect the State from terrorist acts require the efforts of a number of agencies, and that there needs to be a central authority over these activities to ensure coordination.

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers conferred upon me by the Constitution and Laws of the State of South Carolina:

I hereby direct that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) be the operational authority and lead state agency in the counter-terrorism effort including preparation against acts of terrorism in or affecting this State and in the crisis management response to such acts. SLED shall work closely with the Emergency Management Division (EMD) and the various governmental and private entities in South Carolina relevant to the homeland security mission. The South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan concerning terrorism is hereby placed into effect. The Chief of SLED shall create task forces or coordinating councils deemed appropriate to support this mission, and shall serve as the Governor's representative to the United States Office of Homeland Security.

I hereby rescind Executive Orders 2001-34; 2001-36; and, 2002-27.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 16th DAY OF JANUARY, 2003

MARK SANFORD
Governor

Last Updated: Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 11:13 A.M.