In early August, Gov. Shapiro issued an Executive Order aimed at improving statewide readiness without bureaucratic delays to ensure the state can respond more quickly, communicate better, and keep residents protected when disasters happen. This is in keeping with the new FEMA guidelines calling for less federal and more state control of disaster staffing. The order directs the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) to develop plans for a “Commonwealth Surge Workforce” made up of employees from state agencies who can be temporarily reassigned to support disaster recovery efforts. PEMA is also directed to prepare an Emergency Readiness Action Plan and identify efficiencies for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery functions. 

The EO includes additional directions for other state agencies to streamline emergency management policies and will create an Interagency Advisory Group on Emergency Management Readiness to review recommendations provided by FEMA and determine strategies regarding resources to respond to future disasters. Click here to read the press release.