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Most domestic functions have been transferred to other agencies. Those that remain in the Department are: storage and use of the Great Seal, performance of protocolFor the meaning in computer science, see protocol (computing). In addition to the meaning below, treaties are sometimes called protocols. The word derives from a Greek phrase meaning "first leaf", referring to the first draft of a treaty. Protocol is the functions for the White HouseThis page is about the official residence of the President of the USA. For other White Houses see White House (disambiguation). See also 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue (musical . The White House is the official residence and principal workplace of the President, drafting of certain Presidential proclamations, formally accepting notice of the president's resignation, and replies to public inquiries. In addition, the Secretary performs such duties as the President is required, in accordance with the United States ConstitutionLaw for the United States of America The Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the United States of America and is the oldest written national constitution still in force. It was completed on September 17, 1787, with its adoption by the, relating to correspondence, commission, or instructions to U.S. ministers or consuls abroad, and to conduct negotiations with foreign representatives. The Secretary has also served as principal adviser to the President in the determination and execution of U.S. foreign policy and in recent decades has become responsible for overall direction, coordination, and supervision of interdepartmental activities of the U.S. Government overseas, except for certain military activities.
As the highest-ranking Cabinet member, the Secretary of State is fourth in line to succeed the Presidency, after the Vice PresidentThe Vice President of the United States is the second-highest executive official of the United States government, the person who is "a heartbeat from the presidency. As first in the presidential line of succession, the Vice President becomes the new Presi, Speaker of the House of RepresentativesThe Speaker of the House of Representatives is the presiding officer of the United States House of Representatives. The office is provided for in the United States Constitution in the second section of the first article, which states: :"The House of Repre, and President pro tempore of the SenateThe United States Senate, according to the United States Constitution, ( Article I), is required to choose a President Pro Tempore (or, "president for a time," often shortened to President Pro Tem , who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice. (See the entire United States presidential line of successionThe presidential line of succession defines who may become or act as President of the United States upon the death, resignation, or removal from office (by impeachment and subsequent conviction) of a sitting President. The line of succession is mentioned).