States request assistance from other states through interstate mutual aid and assistance agreements such as:
- Emergency Management Assistance Compacts (EMAC)
- Tiered Response
- Stafford Act
- Economy Act or other applicable authorities
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: Emergency Management Assistance Compacts (EMAC).
Explanation
States request assistance from other states through Emergency Management Assistance Compacts (EMAC), which is the primary interstate mutual aid agreement in the United States. EMAC allows states to share resources such as personnel, equipment, and services during emergencies, disasters, or incidents that overwhelm a state’s own capabilities.
Established in 1996 and ratified by Congress, EMAC is a legally binding agreement among all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories. It facilitates quick and efficient support without the need for federal involvement or lengthy bureaucratic processes. When a governor declares a state of emergency, that state can request assistance through EMAC. Other states can then offer aid, and terms (such as cost reimbursement and liability) are clearly outlined, minimizing legal and administrative complications.
Why not the others?
- Tiered Response: This refers to a response system that escalates support based on the severity of the incident (e.g., local → state → federal), but it’s not a formal mutual aid agreement.
- Stafford Act: The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act authorizes federal assistance to states and localities after a presidential disaster declaration. It does not govern state-to-state aid, but rather federal-to-state assistance.
- Economy Act: This act allows federal agencies to provide services to each other on a reimbursable basis. It applies to interagency (not interstate) cooperation and is not relevant to mutual aid among states.
Conclusion:
EMAC is the correct and most appropriate mechanism for states to request and provide mutual aid in emergencies. It promotes cooperation, legal clarity, and operational efficiency among states, especially during large-scale disasters.
