Bill > HB603

This bill establishes the Alabama Resilience Council as an official advisory group within the state's executive branch to coordinate and improve the state's preparedness for and response to various natural and man-made disasters. The council will consist of voting members from 16 state agencies and non-voting members from federal agencies, with membership designed to reflect the state's diverse demographics. The council's primary responsibilities include developing statewide resilience strategies, enhancing community awareness about potential hazards, engaging the private sector in resilience efforts, and supporting risk management and mitigation initiatives. The bill also provides for the potential appointment of a Chief Resilience Officer who will lead the development of a comprehensive statewide resilience plan, which must include a detailed risk and vulnerability assessment, prioritized resilience actions, and an implementation strategy. The plan will evaluate impacts of extreme weather and disasters, assess current and future risks, and propose actions to mitigate potential damages, with a focus on cost-effective and multi-benefit solutions. The council is mandated to meet at least twice annually, and members will serve without compensation except for potential per diem and travel allowances for public employees. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, providing time for organizational preparation and initial planning.

Government Affairs

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