What is a state of emergency and why did Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declare one in Ohio?

After eight tornadoes hit 11 Ohio counties last week, Governor Mike DeWine has declared a state of emergency. So, what does “state of emergency” mean in Ohio, and what does it do for those areas?

Here’s what to know.

What is a state of emergency in Ohio?

Ohio law gives the governor authority to declare a state of emergency as a way to direct resources to help with urgent needs. The Ohio Constitution also gives the governor authority to call out the state militia (the Ohio National Guard) to act in the event of a disaster.

The governor has broad authority to declare an emergency, according to the Ohio Legislative Service Commission, except for when it violates sections the Constitution, such as the separation of powers.

In the case of the March 14 tornadoes, DeWine’s declaration calls for services, equipment, supplies and personnel to assist in the response and recovery effort from the following agencies:

• Ohio Department of Public Safety
• Ohio Emergency Management Agency
• Ohio State Highway Patrol
• Ohio Department of Transportation
• Ohio Department of Health
• Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources
• Ohio Department of Administrative Services

Additionally, DeWine activated the Ohio National Guard to help Logan County officials with the cleanup of storm debris on public property.  

How long does a state of emergency last?

A state of emergency declaration by the governor is in effect for a maximum of 90 days, per Ohio Revised Code. The state legislature can approve an extension, for up to an additional 60 days.

Lawmakers can continue to extend the state of emergency if needed, according to the legislative commission. The legislature also has the authority to terminate a state of emergency.

What’s the role of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency during an emergency?

The executive director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency coordinates all emergency management activities of state agencies and acts as the liaison between Ohio and emergency management agencies in other states and the federal government. Ohio is part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a mutual aid agreement that allows states to share resources during governor-declared states of emergency.

What’s the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency?

An emergency declaration may be necessary to qualify for federal assistance, which becomes available after a state shows its resources are insufficient to address the emergency.

To qualify for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the governor must first request it, according to FEMA. Then, federal, state and local officials will survey the damage to determine if federal assistance is needed. If FEMA help is needed, the President of the United States will make a declaration.

Ohio weather: What help is available from FEMA for victims of severe storms and tornadoes?

Federal assistance may include temporary housing and home repair grants and low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), according to FEMA.

Renters dealing with uninsured or under-insured losses from the storms can also apply for relief to help replace furniture and primary vehicles. The assistance may also help cover out-of-pocket medical and dental expenses, child care, or moving and storage costs.