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Disaster recovery plans (new law)

Published (5/2/2008)
By Brian Hogenson
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The state now has a guideline for agencies to use in responding to a natural disaster.

Sponsored by Rep. Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL-Winona) and Sen. Ann Rest (DFL-New Hope), the new framework provides procedures for state agencies to assist communities included in a presidential declaration of a major disaster during recovery efforts.

According to Pelowski, throughout Minnesota’s 150 years of statehood, a statutory framework or policy for responding to natural disasters has been lacking, leading to a piece-by-piece response. “What we have done, frankly with the best of intentions, has been less than adequate.”

Appropriations to implement the framework must be made in law after a disaster has been declared. The law specifies that state assistance is not for disaster-related costs that are eligible for federal aid, private insurance coverage or other reimbursement.

Signed into law by Gov. Tim Pawlenty on April 28, the law takes effect Aug. 1, 2008.

HF2904*/SF2607/CH247

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