Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

Members

Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) are appointed by the State Emergency Response Commissions (SERCs). LEPCs must consist of representatives of all of the following groups and organizations:

• Agriculture
• Broadcast and print media
• Community groups
• Education
• Elected and local officials
• Emergency management
• Fire fighting
• First aid
• Health
• Hospitals
• Labor
• Law enforcement
• Local environmental and transportation agencies
• Representatives of facilities subject to the emergency planning and community right-to-know requirements

Responsibilities

The LEPC's initial task was to develop emergency plans to prepare for and respond to chemical emergencies. The EPA's list of extremely hazardous substances provided a focus for setting priorities in the planning effort. The plans were required to be completed by October 17, 1988. 

These plans must be reviewed annually, and updated. Because the LEPC's members represent the community, they should be familiar with factors that affect public safety, the environment, and the economy of the community. This expertise will be essential as the LEPC develops plans tailored to the needs of its planning district.