An Act to modernize the Massachusetts emergency management system

Massachusetts bill SD 864 creates a dedicated Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) under the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. It establishes the role of a full-time Director of Emergency Management, defines key terms like "emergency" and "emergency shelter," and creates an Emergency Management Advisory Council with specific membership requirements. The bill requires MEMA to coordinate emergency response resources, develop preparedness plans, and assist communities, while the Governor maintains oversight. This legislation directly affects state agencies, local governments, emergency personnel, and residents by restructuring how Massachusetts organizes and executes emergency management.