The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is the coordination and oversight body for hazardous materials located in Yakima County and falls under Yakima Valley Emergency Management. The committee's mandate, by Federal legislation, is to carry out the requirements of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986.
The LEPC is tasked with developing local hazardous materials response plans. This includes identifying resources and response capabilities, conducting needs assessments of emergency response personnel and equipment and establishing memorandums of understanding with other agencies regarding hazardous materials incidents. However, the LEPC is not limited to just hazardous materials planning. It should have an all-hazards approach that can plan for any hazard, natural or otherwise.
The LEPC works in coordination with facilities that utilize/store hazardous materials, emergency responders, and various community stakeholders to prepare hazardous material emergency plans, serve as the repository for reports filed under Title III, and work to increase awareness, understanding, and compliance with the law.
ByLaws
Public Request for Records
Any requests for public request of records related to chemical reporting under EPCRA should begin at the county Public Records Request process.