Us Code § 3311 - Destruction of records outside continental United States in time of war or when hostile action seems imminent; written report to Archivist

Full text of Us Code United States Code § 3311 — Destruction of records outside continental United States in time of war or when hostile action seems imminent; written report to Archivist, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3311. Destruction of records outside continental United States in time of war or when hostile action seems imminent; written report to Archivist

During a state of war between the United States and another nation, or when hostile action by a foreign power appears imminent, the head of an agency of the United States Government may authorize the destruction of records in his legal custody situated in a military or naval establishment, ship, or other depository outside the territorial limits of continental United States—

(1) the retention of which would be prejudicial to the interests of the United States or

(2) which occupy space urgently needed for military purposes and are, in his opinion, without sufficient administrative, legal, research, or other value to warrant their continued preservation.


Within six months after their disposal, the official who directed the disposal shall submit a written report to the Archivist in which he shall describe the character of the records and state when and where he disposed of them.

(Pub. L. 90–620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1301; Pub. L. 98–497, title I, §107(b)(23), (25)(C), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2290.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1964 ed., §376 (July 7, 1943, ch. 192, §11, 57 Stat. 382; June 30, 1949, ch. 288, title I, §104(a), 63 Stat. 381).


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1984—Pub. L. 98–497 substituted "Archivist" for "Administrator of General Services" in section catchline and text.


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1984 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 98–497 effective Apr. 1, 1985, see section 301 of Pub. L. 98–497, set out as a note under section 2102 of this title.

About This Section

44 U.S.C. § 3311 is part of Title 44 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 44 U.S.C. § 3311. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

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Sources

Source: official Us Code text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Us Code § 3311

What does United States Code § 3311 cover?

Section 3311 ("Destruction of records outside continental United States in time of war or when hostile action seems imminent; written report to Archivist") is part of the United States Code, the codified statutory law of Us Code. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Us Code § 3311?

A common citation format is "United States Code § 3311" (Us Code). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Us Code law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Us Code official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

How does Us Code § 3311 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Us Code can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Us Code.