Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 266 - GEORGIA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
Georgia Compilation of Rules and Regulations (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs.)
Department 266: Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA)
Overview
Department 266 contains the rules and regulations governing the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), the state agency responsible for emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.
GEMA coordinates with local, state, federal, and private agencies to ensure effective disaster management and public safety in Georgia.
The regulations provide the legal framework for how emergency management is conducted, including the roles, responsibilities, and procedures for disaster situations.
Key Provisions
Authority and Jurisdiction
Establishes GEMA’s authority under Georgia law to coordinate emergency management activities statewide.
Defines the agency’s role in planning, preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation of disasters.
Clarifies relationships with other state agencies, local governments, and federal bodies such as FEMA.
Emergency Plans and Procedures
Requires the development and maintenance of state emergency operations plans and other supporting documents.
Mandates procedures for declaring emergencies, activating emergency operations centers, and coordinating response efforts.
Sets protocols for resource allocation, communication, and public information dissemination during emergencies.
Local Emergency Management
Outlines the responsibilities of local emergency management agencies.
Provides guidelines for local jurisdictions to develop local emergency plans aligned with state and federal standards.
Specifies requirements for local emergency coordinators and training.
Disaster Response and Recovery
Details the process for requesting and managing disaster assistance.
Covers procedures for damage assessment, assistance programs, and coordination with federal agencies post-disaster.
Includes guidance on mutual aid agreements between jurisdictions.
Training and Exercises
Requires regular training programs and emergency drills for GEMA staff, local agencies, and partners.
Ensures readiness and effectiveness of emergency management through planned exercises.
Public Safety and Preparedness Programs
Implements public outreach and education initiatives to improve community resilience and individual preparedness.
Coordinates programs such as Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and other volunteer efforts.
Incident Command System (ICS)
Mandates the use of the Incident Command System, a standardized approach to command, control, and coordination during emergencies.
Ensures consistent structure and communication across agencies and jurisdictions.
Funding and Grants
Regulates the administration of state and federal emergency management funding, grants, and financial assistance.
Sets guidelines for grant applications, reporting, and audits.
Purpose
To provide a clear regulatory framework for coordinated emergency management in Georgia.
To enhance the state’s capability to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
To ensure consistent standards and practices across local and state agencies.
To protect life, property, and the environment through effective emergency management.
Enforcing Authority
The Director of GEMA oversees enforcement of these regulations.
Works in partnership with local emergency managers, state agencies, and federal partners.
Enforcement includes ensuring compliance with planning, training, and operational requirements.
Significance
Establishes Georgia’s structured approach to disaster management.
Supports interagency cooperation and resource sharing.
Helps communities recover more quickly and efficiently from emergencies.
Ensures public safety through preparedness and coordinated response.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Agency Authority | Statewide emergency management coordination |
| Emergency Plans | Development and maintenance of state/local emergency plans |
| Response & Recovery | Procedures for disaster assistance and damage assessment |
| Training & Exercises | Regular drills and preparedness training |
| Public Preparedness | Community outreach and education programs |
| Incident Command System | Standardized command and control system |
| Funding | Management of emergency management grants and funding |
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