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For Immediate
Release
4/8/08
Contact:
Matt Campion
(717) 787-5839
 
Senate Approves Pippy Bill Creating Statewide
Mutual Aid Agreement System
Allows counties, municipalities to better respond to natural and manmade
disasters.
Harrisburg – Legislation sponsored by Sen. John Pippy (R-37) to assist
counties and municipalities in responding to disasters was approved by the state
Senate today.
Senate Bill 1225 will be sent to the House of Representatives for
consideration.
Mutual Aid Agreements are used to respond to manmade and natural disasters
that require actions beyond the capacity of the municipality or county in which
the incident has occurred, said Pippy. Senate Bill 1225 establishes a statewide
Mutual Aid Committee to oversee the implementation of a statewide mutual aid
system.
"This panel will be composed of state, regional, and local officials, as well
as emergency responders, who can formalize Mutual Aid Agreements and clarify the
roles and responsibilities of the various entities during disaster responses in
which mutual assistance is needed," said Pippy. "Pennsylvania is one of 15
states without a statewide Mutual Aid Agreement. As a result, this vital
assistance is often provided without written agreements or clearly-defined
divisions of responsibility. This outdated approach raises questions about
liability and workers compensation concerns."
If a political subdivision chooses to participate, they may request
assistance of other participating subdivisions. Requests would be made through
the county 911 center, county emergency management coordinator, authorized
designee in the responding county, or the Pennsylvania Emergency Management
Agency. If assistance is requested, the subdivision will reimburse the
responding subdivision.
The legislation was drafted in conjunction with the Governor's Office, PEMA
and the University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics.
"Local emergency responders know that disasters don't respect municipal
boundaries or county borders. Whether it's preventing disasters, responding to
them or recovering from them, intergovernmental coordination is essential for
the protection of lives and property, and for the best use of public and private
assets," said Pippy. "Citizens and governments at all levels stand ready to help
each other in times of need. This measure will ensure that clearly-written
Mutual Aid Agreements are in place, and that mutual aid is provided quickly and
orderly."
Additional Information:
Improving Emergency
Preparedness
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