### Question
How does the law define inherently governmental function?


### Answer
Under *46 U.S.C. § 70001*, **inherently governmental function** is defined as:

> any activity that is so intimately related to the public interest as to mandate performance by an officer or employee of the Federal Government, including an activity that requires either the exercise of discretion in applying the authority of the Government or the use of judgment in making a decision for the Government

#### Citation:
  - *46 U.S.C. § 70001*
  - Heading: **Subtitle VII-Security and Drug Enforcement > CHAPTER 700-PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY > SUBCHAPTER I-VESSEL OPERATIONS**

