The LEPC is the coordination and oversight body for hazardous materials located in Pierce County. Composed of a wide range of community representatives, including representatives from industry, government, environmental groups, media and first responders among others, its mandate, by Federal legislation, is to carry out the requirements of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). This was part of Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act 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. In addition the LEPC is the repository of the information reported to them from those companies or businesses required to submit information under the requirements of EPCRA. In addition they must establish procedures for receiving and processing requests from the general public for information about industries' hazardous materials.
