In the near future, I will be introducing a concurrent resolution calling for the formation of a special commission to study and make recommendations on the delivery of Emergency Management services in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
 
Despite several efforts, the Emergency Management provisions in Title 35 (Health & Safety) have not been fully updated since 1996.  Since then, we have faced the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001; Hurricanes Katrina, Irene, and Sandy; the Valentine’s Day snowstorm; and other natural and man-made disasters.  There have also been several major emergency declarations, including for COVID-19 and the Opioid epidemic.  It is my hope that this Commission will lead to substantive changes to Title 35. 
 
The commission will include members of the Senate and House, state agencies, representatives of the Emergency Management community, counties and municipalities.  The commission will be assisted by a legislative service agency and will make its recommendations by November 30, 2026.
 
This effort is being supported by the Keystone Emergency Management Association.