What is the legal authority for the Coast Guard to conduct search and rescue operations?

• A. Title 14 Section 2 US Code
• B. Title 28 Section 33 US Code
• C. Title 50 Section 201 US Code
• D. Title 33 CFR

Answer: (A)

The Coast Guard’s authority to conduct search and rescue operations comes from the statute that creates the service and sets its mission. Title 14 United States Code, Section 2 establishes the Coast Guard and assigns it lifesaving and other duties, including search and rescue on navigable waters and the high seas. That statutory basis is what gives the Coast Guard authority to perform SAR missions.

The other options point to different areas (regulations or unrelated titles) and do not establish the Coast Guard’s SAR authority. Title 33 CFR contains implementing regulations the Coast Guard enforces, while Titles 28 and 50 deal with the judiciary and national security, respectively.