Each party state entering into this compact recognizes that many emergencies transcend political jurisdictional boundaries and that intergovernmental coordination is essential in managing these and other emergencies under this compact. Each state further recognizes that there will be emergencies that require immediate access and present procedures to apply outside resources to make a prompt and effective response to such an emergency because few, if any, individual states have all the resources they need in all types of emergencies or the capability of delivering resources to areas where emergencies exist. [PL 1997, c. 780, §2 (NEW).]

The prompt, full and effective utilization of resources of the participating states, including any resources on hand or available from the Federal Government or any other source that are essential to the safety, care and welfare of the people in the event of any emergency or disaster declared by a party state, must be the underlying principle on which all articles of this compact are understood. [PL 1997, c. 780, §2 (NEW).]

On behalf of the governor of each state participating in the compact, the legally designated state official who is assigned responsibility for emergency management is responsible for formulation of the appropriate interstate mutual aid plans and procedures necessary to implement this compact. [PL 1997, c. 780, §2 (NEW).]