What does the Posse Comitatus Act prohibit?

The Posse Comitatus Act primarily prohibits the use of federal military personnel to enforce domestic policies within the United States without congressional approval. This law was enacted to ensure a clear separation between military and civilian law enforcement, reflecting the Founding Fathers' concerns about maintaining civilian control over military power. It specifically aims to prevent the military from engaging in law enforcement actions unless authorized by law, thereby protecting individual liberties and upholding the rule of law.

By requiring congressional approval for such actions, the Act reinforces the principle that military forces should not override civilian authority in domestic matters. This helps to maintain a stable and democratic society where laws are enforced by trained civilian law enforcement agencies. The necessary checks and balances are preserved to prevent abuse of power by the military in the context of domestic law enforcement.

This understanding of the Posse Comitatus Act highlights its significance in shaping the relationship between military and civilian law enforcement in the United States.