Continuity Guidance Circular 1 (CGC 1)

The President issued the National Security Presidential Directive-51/Homeland Security Presidential Directive-20 (NSPD-51/HSPD-20) National Continuity Policy in May 2007 to establish and maintain a comprehensive and effective national continuity capability in order to ensure the preservation of our form of Government under the Constitution and the continuing performance of National Essential Functions under all conditions. In August 2007, the President approved the National Continuity Policy Implementation Plan to build upon the Policy and provide guidance to executive departments and agencies on appropriately identifying and carrying out their Primary Mission Essential Functions that support the eight National Essential Functions-the most essential functions necessary to lead and sustain the Nation during a catastrophic emergency. To provide the operational guidance to implement this policy, the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with our non-federal partners, has developed Continuity Guidance Circular 1 (CGC 1), Continuity Guidance for Non-Federal Entities. The purpose of this guidance document is to provide direction for the development of continuity plans and programs for non-federal entities. Effective continuity planning and programs facilitate the performance of essential functions during all-hazards emergencies or other situations that may disrupt normal operations. The primary goal of continuity is the continuation of essential functions. In this guidance document, the elements of a viable continuity capability are identified and discussed. These elements are critical to establishing and maintaining a comprehensive and effective continuity capability. Continuity programs and operations are good business practices that ensure critical services will be available to the Nation's citizens under all conditions. The provisions of this guidance document are applicable for State, local, territorial and tribal governments and the private sector.