Bill > S541

This bill modernizes the Massachusetts emergency management system by establishing the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) as a comprehensive and robust organization responsible for coordinating emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across the state. The bill creates a detailed framework for emergency management, including defining key terms like "emergency" and "emergency management functions", establishing the roles and responsibilities of the agency's director, and creating an Emergency Management Advisory Council to provide guidance. The legislation empowers the governor during states of emergency to suspend certain regulations, deploy resources, and take necessary actions to protect public safety. The bill also mandates the creation of regional emergency operations centers, a State Emergency Operations Center, and a comprehensive state emergency management plan. It provides protections and support for emergency response workers, including potential property tax relief, liability protection, and leave provisions for those serving in emergency roles. Additionally, the bill addresses specific emergency scenarios like nuclear power plant preparedness, local emergency declarations, and resource deployment, while ensuring coordination between state, local, and federal agencies during crisis situations.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S541