Bill > S1668

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) as a comprehensive state-level organization responsible for coordinating emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. The bill defines key terms such as "emergency" and "emergency management functions," and outlines the agency's responsibilities, which include developing emergency response plans, training emergency workers, providing public information, coordinating emergency responses, and maintaining emergency supply stockpiles. The bill grants the governor significant powers during a state of emergency, including the ability to suspend certain laws, employ government resources, enter private property, and temporarily modify employment restrictions for retired workers. It mandates the creation of a State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to serve as a central coordination hub during emergencies and requires the development of a comprehensive emergency management plan. The legislation also provides protections and benefits for emergency response workers, including potential property tax relief for local emergency management directors and workers. Additionally, the bill includes specific provisions for nuclear power plant preparedness, judicial administration during emergencies, and water emergency interconnections between municipalities. The goal is to create a more robust, coordinated, and flexible emergency management system for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1668