VT H0901

Regional and municipal emergency management plans must adopt an access and functional needs framework using the C-MIST process (Communication, Medical needs, Independence, Supervision, and Transportation) to identify and address needs of people with disabilities

Emergency management organizations at regional and local levels must include members with lived disability experience and representatives from organizations serving vulnerable populations, with municipalities required to partner with disability-led organizations throughout all planning phases

Division of Emergency Management must update local emergency plan templates to address shelter siting, universal access, and inclusion of individuals with diverse functional needs

Educational institutions must develop emergency management plans that include disability-specific evacuation procedures, continuity of education services during emergencies, and integration of emergency plans into individualized education programs (IEPs)

State and municipal governments must designate Access and Functional Needs Coordinators, complete disability-led training programs, implement accessible communication systems, and conduct ADA compliance inspections of all emergency shelter spaces