The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) is a nationwide mutual aid agreement that enables states to share resources efficiently during natural disasters, technological emergencies, or acts of terrorism. First introduced in 1993, EMAC continues to be administered by the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) and remains the nation’s foundational system for state‑to‑state emergency assistance. EMAC provides a standardized legal and operational framework that addresses mission requests, reimbursement, liability, workers’ compensation, and personnel protections before a disaster occurs.
Michigan enacted EMAC through Public Acts 247 and 248 of 2001, signed into law on January 9, 2002, becoming the 43rd state to join the compact. Today, EMAC membership includes all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and three U.S. territories, making it a fully nationwide mutual aid system.
The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) maintains responsibility for EMAC implementation within the state. MSP/EMHSD works with local and state partners to maintain readiness, identify deployable resources, and support EMAC mission requests.
Michigan regularly participates in EMAC operations by deploying personnel and resources to assist other states and has also requested EMAC support when needed. In 2025, Michigan utilized EMAC to bring in specialized debris‑removal teams from Indiana following a severe ice storm in northern Michigan. This marked the first time Michigan formally requested out‑of‑state assistance through the compact.
Through continued planning, training, and coordination, Michigan maintains a robust capability to both provide and receive emergency assistance under the EMAC framework, ensuring rapid, flexible, and legally supported mutual aid during major incidents.
