Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 145 - Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management
Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 145 – Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM)
This section of the Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) contains the rules and policies established for the operation of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management. The OEM is the state agency responsible for preparing for, responding to, recovering from, and mitigating the effects of emergencies and disasters in Oklahoma.
Here’s a detailed explanation of what Title 145 covers:
✅ 1. Purpose of Title 145
Title 145 sets out the rules, procedures, and responsibilities of the OEM. Its primary mission is to coordinate efforts that protect lives, property, and the environment during emergencies and disasters.
It serves as the legal framework for:
Statewide emergency planning.
Coordination with local, federal, and private partners.
Administration of disaster assistance programs.
✅ 2. Key Responsibilities of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management
The OEM’s functions as outlined in Title 145 include:
📦 Preparedness
Developing and maintaining the State Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
Coordinating training and exercises for emergency response personnel.
Promoting public education on emergency preparedness.
🚨 Response
Leading the state’s response during disasters (tornadoes, floods, wildfires, pandemics, etc.).
Operating the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC).
Providing logistical and technical support to local governments.
🔄 Recovery
Assisting communities in recovering from disasters.
Managing federal disaster assistance programs (FEMA funds, etc.).
Overseeing damage assessments and long-term recovery planning.
🌪️ Mitigation
Supporting programs to reduce future disaster risks (like safe room rebates and hazard mitigation grants).
✅ 3. Administrative Structure
The OEM is led by a Director, appointed by the Governor.
The Director oversees staff responsible for various program areas like planning, grants management, and field services.
OEM works closely with:
The Governor’s Office (especially when declaring a state of emergency).
Local Emergency Management agencies in all 77 counties.
Federal partners like FEMA, DHS, and the National Weather Service.
✅ 4. Rules and Policies in Title 145
The rules under Title 145 generally include:
📖 Definitions and general provisions – Clarifying key terms and agency authority.
📋 Emergency Planning Requirements – Outlining what local governments must include in their emergency plans to comply with state law.
💵 Grant and Funding Guidelines – Explaining how the OEM administers state and federal funds for disaster response and mitigation.
📞 Reporting and Notification Procedures – Setting timelines and methods for reporting incidents to the OEM.
🗂️ Records and Documentation – Requirements for maintaining emergency-related records and submitting reports after incidents.
✅ 5. Funding
OEM is funded through a combination of state appropriations, federal grants, and cost-sharing with local governments.
They administer federal programs like the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).
✅ 6. Focus Areas
The OEM’s rules emphasize:
All-hazards preparedness (natural disasters, terrorism, public health emergencies).
Statewide coordination across urban and rural areas.
Supporting vulnerable populations during emergencies.
✅ 7. Example Programs Managed by OEM
Oklahoma Individual Assistance Program – Provides help to individuals after disasters when federal aid is not available.
Safe Room Rebate Program – Encourages residents to install storm shelters.
Hazard Mitigation Projects – Supports local governments in reducing disaster risks.
RELATED Blog
0 comments