This bill establishes a three-year pilot program aimed at protecting at-risk individuals during extreme heat events by implementing a Code Red alert system. The program requires county governing bodies to develop plans for issuing alerts to municipalities, social service agencies, and non-profit organizations that assist at-risk individuals, defined as those living outdoors or in poorly insulated settings. The county offices of emergency management will coordinate with municipal emergency management coordinators in areas with a documented homeless population of at least ten people to create consistent alert plans that include communication strategies, emergency cooling centers, and transportation options. Volunteer organizations may assist in executing these plans, operating autonomously while receiving logistical support from the county coordinator.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the State Office of Emergency Management submit a report to the Governor and Legislature on the pilot program's effectiveness, challenges, and recommendations for its future after 30 months. It also includes provisions for counties to seek reimbursement for administrative costs incurred during the pilot program. The bill offers Good Samaritan protections from civil liability for the State, local governments, and volunteers involved in providing emergency services under the Code Red alert plan. The legal language has been updated to reflect these changes, including the insertion of specific protections and definitions related to the Code Red alert system. The act will take effect immediately and will expire three years after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: .A:9-52