A Local Emergency Planning Committee is designed to serve as a community forum for issues relating to preparedness for emergencies involving hazardous substances.

 

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)

Federal Law – 1986

• Improve Community Preparedness

• Increase Public Awareness

• Build Information Database

 

Each State was to establish State Emergency Response Commission (SERC)

In 1987, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) was designated to be the SERC for Illinois.

 

Under EPCRA, each SERC is to establish Planning Districts and Appoint Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) for those Districts

• IEMA designated 103 Emergency Planning Districts

• 102 Counties + City of Chicago =103

 

County Emergency Management is an integral part of the LEPC

• County EMA must have an “all hazards” approach to protect public

• Chemicals are one type of hazard

• Participation and cooperation among LEPCs and Counties is critical

 

A Local Emergency Planning Committee is designed to serve as a community forum for issues relating to preparedness for emergencies involving hazardous substances.