Interagency Coordinating Council on Emergency Preparedness and Individuals with Disabilities
President George W. Bush signs an executive order for individuals with disabilities in emergency preparedness on July 22, 2004 in the Oval Office.
The Interagency Coordinating Council on Emergency Preparedness and Individuals with Disabilities was established to ensure that the Federal government appropriately supports safety and security for individuals with disabilities in disaster situations.
The purpose of the Council is to:
- Consider, in their emergency preparedness planning, the unique needs of agency employees with disabilities and individuals with disabilities whom the agency serves;
- Encourage, including through the provision of technical assistance, consideration of the unique needs of employees and individuals with disabilities served by State, local, and tribal governments, and private organizations and individuals in emergency preparedness planning; and
- Facilitate cooperation among Federal, State, local, and tribal governments and private organizations and individuals in the implementation of emergency preparedness plans as they relate to individuals with disabilities.
About the Council - Council participants, Subcommittees and meeting information.
Secretary Ridge Reaches Out to Governors (PDF, 2 pages - 88 KB) Sample of the letter sent to each governor encouraging their support in incorporating the needs of Americans with disabilities in preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
