HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Council is backing Gov. Edward G. Rendell’s proclamation of a statewide disaster emergency, according to Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll, who chairs the council.
As a result of this week’s severe statewide winter storm, the Governor has directed all state departments and agencies to utilize all available resources and staff to respond to the storm.
“We agree with the Governor’s decision to transfer funds up to $1 million to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency for disaster-related expenses incurred by departments throughout the state,” said Knoll, who chairs the PEMC. “This proclamation of disaster emergency also authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, the Adjutant General, the Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania National Guard to utilize all available resources for the purposes of emergency relief.”
Gov. Rendell further directed that all emergency response plans implemented at the state, county, and municipal levels be coordinated through PEMA. The Governor also authorized the employment of temporary workers, the rental of equipment, and the execution of contracts and agreements as may be required to address emergency conditions throughout the state.
The PEMC, which by law reviews the Governor’s decision, unanimously supported these actions.
