This bill establishes a three-year pilot program called the Code Red alert program aimed at providing shelter and emergency services to at-risk individuals during extreme heat conditions. It defines "at-risk individuals" as those living outdoors or in poorly insulated settings who are vulnerable to weather-related exposure and potential death. The program mandates that county emergency management offices coordinate with municipal emergency management coordinators in areas with a documented homeless population of at least ten people to develop consistent Code Red alert plans. These plans will include communication and outreach efforts, the establishment of emergency cooling centers, and transportation services during heat alerts.

Additionally, the bill requires the State Office of Emergency Management to report to the Governor and Legislature on the pilot program's effectiveness and challenges, along with recommendations for its future. The county emergency management coordinator is tasked with monitoring weather forecasts and issuing alerts when specific temperature thresholds are met. The bill also provides liability protections for the State, local governments, and volunteer organizations involved in the program, ensuring they are not held liable for injuries or damages while providing emergency services under the Code Red alert plan.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: .A:9-52