UBCM and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) have established the Local Government Advisory Committee on EDMA Regulations to inform the development of regulations associated with the new Emergency and Disaster Management Act. Local government elected officials and staff members interested in participating have until May 17, 2024, to apply.
On November 8, 2023, the Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA) received Royal Assent, replacing the Emergency Program Act as BC’s legislative framework for emergency and disaster management. As part of the phased implementation of the EDMA, the Province has committed to developing regulations, as well as associated policies and guidance, that are anticipated to be introduced through 2025.
Recognizing that local governments are partners in emergency management and have important powers and responsibilities under the new Act, EMCR and UBCM have agreed to establish the Local Government Advisory Committee. The committee will act as a forum for meaningful engagement and consultation with local governments throughout EMCR’s process to develop and implement regulations associated with the EDMA.
Advisory Committee meetings are expected to begin in early summer 2024 and will take place via videoconference. Up to 10 local government representatives will be appointed by the UBCM Executive for a term ending on December 31, 2025, with consideration towards ensuring representation from staff and elected officials; municipalities and regional districts; and all five area associations.
Elected officials shall be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses, in accordance with UBCM policy.
Interested parties are asked to contact Bhar Sihota, UBCM Senior Policy Analyst, by 4:30 pm on May 17, 2024.