Mutual Aid Agreements (IMAC & EMAC)

Iowa Mutual Aid Compact (IMAC)

The Iowa Mutual Aid Compact (IMAC), signed into law in 2002, is an intrastate mutual aid agreement that provides the mechanism for political subdivisions and emergency management commissions to share resources with one another during a disaster that has been declared either by the local jurisdiction or the governor. The Compact increases each member’s level of emergency preparedness, allowing them to work as a team when disasters are beyond local capabilities. Legislation passed during the spring 2009 legislative session provides for some important changes: emergency management commissions are now included as IMAC signatories, membership in the compact is automatic for all political subdivisions and Authorized Representatives are designated.

IMAC Resources

• IMAC Presentation
• IMAC Legislative Language (Ch.29C.22)
• REQ-A Form
• REQ-A Form Instructions
• Mobilization Checklist
• Reimbursement Form
• Reimbursement Form Instructions 

Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC)

The Department’s responsibilities sometimes extend beyond state boundaries. HSEM works with other states to provide resources through the national Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). Since Iowa became a member of EMAC in 1997, it has deployed many state and local government resources to other states.

In addition, HSEM is involved in many state-to-state, regional, and national collaborations for important initiatives, including catastrophic and special needs populations planning and agroterrorism emergency response planning.

About EMAC

The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) is a nationally adopted mutual aid agreement sanctioned by Congress and ratified by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This partnership allows Members to assist one another in responding to all types of emergencies or disasters using resources from all disciplines, including the National Guard. Through EMAC, states, territories, and the district can share resources, personnel, and expertise to enhance response capabilities, recover more quickly, and save lives. EMAC ensures effective support is readily available and can be mobilized rapidly across borders during emergencies or disasters, reinforcing the commitment of states to work collaboratively in times of crisis. EMAC not only strengthens local response and recovery efforts but also demonstrates the nation is committed to the premise of neighbor helping neighbor in the face of disasters. Learn more about EMAC at www.emacweb.org.