Posse Comitatus

The Posse Comitatus Act, enacted in 1878, is a United States federal law that limits the use of the military to enforce domestic laws. Specifically, it prohibits the military from acting as a police force or engaging in civilian law enforcement activities unless authorized by Congress or the Constitution. The law aims to maintain the separation between military power and civilian law enforcement, ensuring that the military supports, but does not replace, civilian authorities in maintaining law and order. There are exceptions, such as during emergencies or when specifically authorized.