01-2020 - Emergency Guidelines

I. Purpose

This policy establishes a consistent framework for addressing disruptions to Compact-related duties during emergency conditions. It is intended to be applied narrowly and in a manner that supports the continuation of required Compact services to the greatest extent possible under the emergency circumstances.

II. Scope & Applicability

1. This policy applies to emergency conditions that materially impact a state’s ability to fulfill Compact duties. Emergencies may include, but are not limited to:

• Federal, state, or judicial declarations of emergency;

• Natural disasters or environmental incidents;

• Public health emergencies;

• Prolonged utility or infrastructure failures;

• Hazardous material incidents;

• Cyber-attacks; or

• Terrorist or military actions.

2. A disruption under this policy is defined as a period of up to sixty (60) days and may be extended in accordance with established procedures, or at the request of a member state.

III. Policy

1. States affected by an emergency shall make reasonable efforts to continue Compact duties related to the transfer and supervision of individuals in accordance with the Compact.

2. Individuals under compact supervision shall continue to be supervised in a manner consistent with supervision of in-state individuals, to the extent practicable during emergency conditions.

3. States experiencing disruptions to Compact duties must provide documentation identifying the legal or administrative authority for such disruptions, the anticipated duration, and the specific duties affected.

4. Decisions related to Compact duties during emergencies shall prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of supervised individuals, victims, staff, and the community.

5. States shall work cooperatively and communicate as needed to address cases on an individual basis, with the goal of maintaining public safety and effective supervision.

6. The National Office shall serve as a communications liaison and disseminate information regarding emergency conditions and impacted states, as appropriate. 

IV. Emergency Procedures

1. When an emergency conditions impact a state’s ability to perform Compact duties, the state’s Commissioner shall provide written notice to the national office identifying:
    

   1. the nature of the disruption;

   2. its effective date;

   3. the authority under which changes are implemented; and

   4. designated contact information.

       

2. To support continuity of Compact operations, the notice shall specify interim procedures or coordination measures, such as:

   1. Plans for maintaining essential Compact duties and information sharing;

   2. Coordination protocols during emergency evacuations or relocations, including maintaining prompt communication between sending and receiving states; and

   3. Alternative methods for transportation or supervision when travel or transportation services are restricted.

       

3. Based on the documentation submitted under this policy, the Executive Committee may reconsider compliance standards and enforcement actions in light of the nature and scope of the emergency, consistent with Administrative Policy 01-2026 Code of Conduct and Compliance.

   See Administrative Policy 01-2026)  & Rule 2.111