National Special Security Event

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Super Bowl XLIV security news conference 2010-02-01 1

National Special Security Event (NSSE) is a designation given by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to a select group of events that are of national or international significance, which require the full protection and coordination of federal resources to ensure their security, safety, and the smooth execution of the event. This designation brings together multiple federal agencies, led by the United States Secret Service, to plan, coordinate, and implement security operations.

Overview

The concept of National Special Security Events was established under Presidential Directive PDD-62 in 1998. This directive recognized the need for a coordinated approach to the security of events that have significant importance to the United States and require federal support to safeguard the participants and the public. The authority to designate an event as an NSSE was initially given to the President of the United States but has since been delegated to the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Criteria for Designation

An event is considered for NSSE designation based on a variety of factors, including:

• The anticipated attendance by U.S. officials and foreign dignitaries
• The size of the event
• The significance of the event on a national or international level

Events that have been designated as NSSEs in the past include the Presidential Inauguration, the State of the Union Address, major international summits held in the U.S., such as the G7 and G20 summits, the United Nations General Assembly, and other major public events like the Super Bowl.

Roles and Responsibilities

The primary agency responsible for the planning, coordination, and implementation of the federal security efforts for NSSEs is the United States Secret Service. However, the Secret Service works in close collaboration with multiple federal agencies, including:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - responsible for intelligence, counterterrorism, and investigation
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - responsible for recovery management and emergency response
• United States Department of Defense (DoD) - provides additional security and logistical support

Local and state law enforcement agencies also play a critical role in the security operations for NSSEs, working in partnership with federal agencies to ensure the safety and security of the event.

Security Measures

The security measures implemented for NSSEs are comprehensive and tailored to the specific needs of each event. These measures can include:

• Physical security barriers and fencing
• Credentialing and access control
• Explosive detection and neutralization
• Cybersecurity measures to protect against digital threats
• Airspace restrictions and monitoring

Challenges

Organizing security for NSSEs presents a unique set of challenges, including the coordination of multiple agencies, the management of large crowds, and the need to balance security with the public's right to access and participate in these events. The dynamic nature of security threats, including terrorism and cyber-attacks, requires constant vigilance and adaptation of security measures.

Conclusion

National Special Security Events represent a critical component of the United States' approach to national security, requiring an unprecedented level of coordination and cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies. The designation of an event as an NSSE ensures that the full resources of the federal government are brought to bear, providing a secure environment for the conduct of events of national and international significance.