Management of public health emergencies requires effective use of legal authorities. In these incidents, public health and emergency management responses must be coordinated under a complex set of federal, state, tribal, and local laws. CDC’s Public Health Emergency Law course prepares state, tribal, local, and territorial practitioners to make informed legal decisions related to emergency preparedness and response activities in their jurisdictions.
PHEL consists of three competency-based units and covers legal issues to consider before, during, and after public health emergencies. Each interactive unit takes about 40 minutes to complete.
Public Health Emergency Law Online Trainingexternal icon
Unit 1—Introduction to Emergency Management Systems Preparedness and Response
Covers the legal underpinnings of emergency management systems
Unit 2—Emergency Powers: Protection of Persons, Volunteers, and Responders
Describes legal considerations for personnel responding to emergencies
Unit 3—Emergency Powers: Management and Protection of Property and Supplies
Examines considerations surrounding materials and property during public health emergencies
Disclaimer: These course materials are for instructional use only and are not intended as a substitute for professional legal or other advice. While every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of these materials, the legal authorities and requirements may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Always seek the advice of an attorney or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a legal matter. The contents of these presentations have not been formally disseminated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and should not be construed to represent any agency determination or policy.
