Senator Gallivan Introduces Legislation Giving Local Leaders More Authority During a State of Emergency

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) and Assemblymember Michael Kearns (D, Buffalo) will introduce legislation (S6269) that would give county executives, city and village mayors, town supervisors and other municipal chief executives the authority to designate any vehicle as an emergency vehicle during a declared state of emergency.  Local leaders could exercise the authority in the event of a state of emergency declared by the governor or other local official. 

“When dealing with a weather related emergency or other disaster, local leaders are in the best position to determine the immediate needs of their community,” Gallivan said.  “This bill would give county executives, mayors and supervisors the authority to designate emergency vehicles as needed to better ensure the safety of residents and the delivery of emergency services.”

The legislation would grant local leaders the ability to designate emergency vehicles even in a governor declared state of emergency, such as the one declared in November 2014 when up to seven feet of snow fell across Western New York.  Fourteen counties were included in the declaration, including Erie, Wyoming, Livingston, Monroe, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua.

"Although Buffalo is known for its winters, last year's storm was unprecedented bringing new challenges to emergency medical personnel and first responders,” Kearns said.  “I am committed to making sure local governments have all the tools and resources necessary in order to keep Western New Yorkers safe during emergencies."

The Senate and Assembly will consider the legislation when they return to Albany in January.

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