The MA State House of Representatives greatly improved upon legislation that addresses the need for a coordinated response of public health officials in a time of a declared state of emergency.  (There will be no “Brownie, you’re doing a heckuva job …” in our future …) 

In a post 9/11 and Katrina world we can all agree that there is a need for better coordination of services in an emergency.  NOTE:  A prior legislative proposal raised some very significant concerns that the Government coulld infringe upon civil liberties in a vaguely defined emergency.  I was pleased to have helped to make sure that this bill addresses these concerns for protection of individual liberties, and co-sponsored one successful amendment with the Minority Leader, Brad Jones, et al to clearly define when a state of emergency can be declared.  There was a great deal of internet chatter about the earlier proposed legislation that passed the State Senate.  I believe that we have properly addressed these issues.  Let me know of any concerns or questions that you may have.    http://www.boston.com/news/health/articles/2009/10/09/mass_house_oks_bill_clarifying_health_officials_authority/