During a declared emergency, a governor has extraordinary powers, including the authority to suspend State laws, engage the National Guard, seize personal property, direct evacuations, and authorize emergency funds. A governor should understand the impact of disasters on people and property and realize this impact can be lessened through mitigation activities. When State and local resources are not sufficient to respond to a disaster, a governor may request Federal assistance and should be aware of the requirements and procedures for requesting such assistance. Further, a governor should be prepared to deal with nuclear, biological, and chemical terrorism. The guide recognizes that State emergency management is a shared responsibility involving several agencies, including the governor's office and the police department. The guide describes the following steps in planning for and responding to emergencies: (1) develop a mitigation plan; (2) identify State emergency powers, roles, and responsibilities; (3) craft a communications strategy; (4) request major disaster and emergency declarations; (5) identify available assistance; (6) help people and businesses cope with disasters; and (7) respond to domestic terrorism. An appendix lists source of emergency management information. 10 endnotes