Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has issued an executive directive establishing a road map for the creation of a new agency that will be responsible for the fire service-related aspects of the state's homeland security and emergency response efforts.

“Michigan's firefighters, fire chiefs and other members of the fire service play a vital role in protecting the health, safety and welfare of citizens across the state,” Granholm said. “This directive will establish a process for the consolidation of resources to allow our fire service personnel to be more effective and efficient, which in turn will strengthen Michigan's emergency management and homeland security efforts.”

Executive Directive 2005-10 requires the Department of Labor and Economic Growth to report to the governor changes necessary to establish a new Bureau of Fire Services. It designates the state fire marshal as a policy adviser to the governor on state fire service issues. The directive also requires the Department of Labor and Economic Growth and the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division to ensure that the state fire marshal is represented at the state emergency operations center.

In addition, all state departments and agencies must conduct an assessment to determine which fire-related services the new Bureau of Fire Services will administer. The State Fire Marshal's Office and the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Services also must report measures that can improve the state's response to large disasters or emergencies involving fire services and make the Michigan Emergency Management Assistance Compact more effective for the state's fire services.

This directive is part of a continuous effort by the governor and the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division to ensure all relevant factors are taken into consideration in the development and implementation of effective and coordinated homeland security response measures.