Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP)
Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) supports Iowa’s Local Emergency Planning Committees with hazmat planning and training to improve safe, efficient responses, especially to transportation incidents.
Funder: Iowa Department of Public Safety / HSEMD
Due Dates: October 30, 2026 (Notice of Interest) | January 8, 2027 (Application)
Funding Amounts: Financial and technical assistance for hazardous materials planning and training
Summary: Supports hazardous materials emergency planning and training to improve safe, efficient responses, particularly to transportation incidents.
Key Information: Iowa funding is directed to eligible Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs).
Description
The Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) program supports hazardous materials emergency planning and training, including assistance to public sector employees involved in emergency response. It aims to improve safe and efficient handling of hazardous materials accidents and incidents, with particular attention to the unique challenges of transportation-related responses.
Authorized by the Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security Reauthorization Act of 2005, HMEP also promotes implementation of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 (EPCRA) and a comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration administers the funds nationally. Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) serves as Iowa’s State Administrative Agency, distributing funding to eligible Local Emergency Planning Committees for hazmat planning and training.
