The Departments of Education, Health, Labor and Industry and Public Welfare shall execute an interagency agreement to establish coordination and collaboration at the State level by defining fiscal and programmatic responsibilities for each agency under applicable law. This interagency agreement shall also provide specific direction for local level interagency cooperation to achieve the objectives listed in this section. The interagency agreement shall be executed prior to the expiration of this subchapter. The directives and responsibilities set forth under the agreement will be coordinated and directed by the Pennsylvania Human Resources Investment Council, if applicable, with the involvement of appropriate advisory councils. The objectives are as follows:

   (1)  To promote systematic funding to support students with disabilities. This includes the implementation of a reimbursement mechanism and the assignment of responsibilities for services each department will provide pursuant to the terms of Federal or State law or State-level interagency agreement. The interagency agreement shall include:

     (i)   An identification of, or a method for defining, the financial responsibility of each agency for providing services to ensure a free appropriate public education to children with disabilities, provided that the financial responsibility of each public agency otherwise obligated under State or Federal law or State policy to provide or pay for any services that are also considered special education or related services shall precede the financial responsibility of the local educational agency (or the State agency responsible for developing the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)).

     (ii)   The conditions, terms and procedures under which a local educational agency shall be reimbursed by other agencies.

     (iii)   Procedures for resolving interagency disputes, including procedures under which local educational agencies may initiate proceedings, under the agreement or other mechanism to secure reimbursement from other agencies or otherwise implement the provisions of the agreement or mechanism.

     (iv)   Policies and procedures for agencies to determine and identify the responsibilities of each agency to promote interagency coordination and timely and appropriate delivery of services.

   (2)  To promote interagency cooperation in the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.A. § §  1400—1485). With reference to transition services, the interagency agreement shall identify:

     (i)   Policies, practices and procedures that can be coordinated between agencies, including definitions, standards for eligibility, policies and procedures for making referrals, procedures for outreach to and identification of students who are receiving special education services and are in need of transition services, and procedures and time frames for evaluation and follow-up on those students.

     (ii)   The roles of each agency, including provisions for determining the State lead agencies and qualified personnel with primary responsibility for transition services.

     (iii)   Procedures for providing training for staff of State and local educational agencies as to the availability, benefits of and eligibility standards for other State agencies providing transition services.

     (iv)   Available resources, including sources of funds for the development and expansion of services.

     (v)   Other components necessary to ensure meaningful cooperation among agencies, including procedures to facilitate the development of local teams to coordinate the provision of services to students with disabilities, sharing data and joint training of staff in the provision of transition services.

   (3)  To assure that local agreements, consistent with the objectives of the State-level interagency agreement, are developed and implemented among the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation district offices, local school districts, vocational technical schools, intermediate units, county mental health/mental retardation programs, district offices of Blindness and Visual Services and other appropriate agencies.

   (4)  To evaluate the need for and implement, as appropriate, joint training and ongoing in-service training for staff of the Bureau of Special Education, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Bureau of Employment Services and Training; the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing; the State Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and County Mental Health; the State Office of Mental Retardation; county mental retardation offices; the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services; intermediate units; school districts; vocational-technical schools; postsecondary institutions as well as for parents/families, service providers and representatives from business and industry.

   (5)  To promote the availability of appropriate choices and options for students with disabilities and their families in securing services, including early intervention, special education and related services, and to enable students to make the transition from school to becoming successful, participating members of the community.

   (6)  To review existing databases for students/clients with disabilities, while maintaining proper confidentiality, as a means to make recommendations for improving coordinated services.

   (7)  To provide mechanisms for the replication of exemplary programs.

 (a)  The Interagency Committee to Coordinate Services Provided to Individuals with Disabilities Committee (Committee) members will be appointed by the respective Secretaries or other agency director, and will, at a minimum, include:

   (1)  A member of the staff of the Governor’s Policy Office, and the Policy Offices of the Departments of Education, Health, Labor and Industry and Public Welfare.

   (2)  A deputy secretary from each of the departments or a designee.

   (3)  One representative each from the Department of Education’s Bureau of Special Education, Bureau of Vocational-Technical Education and Office of School to Work.

   (4)  One representative each from the Department of Labor and Industry’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Bureau of Employment Services and Training.

   (5)  One representative each from the Department of Public Welfare’s Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Office of Mental Retardation, Office of Medical Assistance Programs and Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services.

 (b)  The Committee will meet at least quarterly.

 This subchapter will terminate December 31, 1999.

Subchapter B. GOVERNOR’S ADVISORY COUNCIL
ON RURAL AFFAIRS

Sec.

 The Governor’s Advisory Council on Rural Affairs (Council) shall:

   (1)  Seek to build and foster inclusive, collaborative partnerships and networks of diverse individuals and organizations to improve the coordination and effectiveness of Federal, State and other programs, services and actions affecting rural areas in this Commonwealth. To this end, the Council shall serve as a liaison to Federal, State and local government agencies to ensure that programs affecting rural Pennsylvanians are effectively utilized and that benefits are available to all rural citizens.

   (2)  Foster expanded economic and social opportunities for this Commonwealth’s rural residents. In this regard, the Council and its partners shall identify opportunities for and impediments to expansion and develop strategies for taking advantage of opportunities and overcoming impediments. The Council shall develop, review and recommend policies to the Governor to promote expanded economic and social opportunities for rural Pennsylvania.

   (3)  Serve as a vehicle for collective advocacy on behalf of this Commonwealth’s rural communities and their residents.

   (4)  Promote intergovernmental cooperation.

   (5)  Promote community-based problem-solving strategies which include all ideas, resources and expertise without regard to traditional distinctions among units, agencies or levels of government. Further, these strategies anticipate inclusion in the problem-solving process, all individuals, organizations and agencies with contributions to make for the advancement of the common good.

   (6)  Advise the Governor, agencies, organizations and other entities on issues affecting rural communities and their residents.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Council on Rural Affairs shall consist of a Board of Directors comprised of 30 members, with six each representing the private sector, the nonprofit sector, local government agencies, State government agencies and Federal government agencies. Members of the Board of Directors shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. Members of the Board of Directors may continue to serve in their positions only so long as they remain a member of the group from which they were chosen.

 (b)  The Governor will designate three Co-Chairpersons representing State, Federal and local governments. The Co-Chairpersons serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (a)  Members will be appointed for a term of 2 years. Members serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Council on Rural Affairs (Council) is authorized to establish committees and procedures for the effective implementation of its functions consistent with this subchapter.

 (b)  The Council shall submit reports and policy recommendations it deems necessary that would assist in the preservation or enhancement of the quality of life for rural citizens and communities.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Council on Rural Affairs (Council) shall seek to develop good working relationships with Federal and local government agencies so that the Council’s mission to promote intergovernmental cooperation and coordination may be achieved to the greatest extent possible.

 Executive Order 1999-2 is rescinded.

Subchapter C. PENNSYLVANIA JUSTICE NETWORK (JNET)
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

Sec.

 The JNET Executive Council is responsible for establishing an overall policy and strategic vision for the JNET Project. This vision should complement agency operations and ensure ongoing interagency cooperation and collaboration.

   (1)  Composition.

     (i)   The JNET Executive Council is comprised of chief executives from the justice and justice-affiliated organizations identified in this subparagraph. Given the significance of the JNET Project to the administration’s overall public safety initiatives, participants are required to regularly represent their respective agencies at Council meetings. Given the significance of the JNET Project to the Administration’s overall public safety agenda, if the participant on the JNET Council is not the chief executive, the designee shall serve as a high-level decision-maker from the agency.

       (A)   Department of Corrections.

       (B)   Pennsylvania State Police.

       (C)   Board of Probation and Parole.

       (D)   Commission on Crime and Delinquency.

       (E)   Board of Pardons.

       (F)   Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission.

       (G)   Department of Public Welfare.

       (H)   Department of Transportation.

       (I)   Governor’s Policy Office.

       (J)   Governor’s Office of Administration.

       (K)   Office of the Budget.

       (L)   Office of General Counsel.

       (M)   Office of Inspector General.

       (N)   Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

       (O)   Office of Attorney General.

     (ii)   Although participation on the JNET Executive Council by justice entities outside the Executive Branch, or outside the Governor’s jurisdiction, cannot be required by Executive Order, representation by the Administrative Office of the Pennsylvania Courts and the Office of Attorney General is seen to be critical to the success of the JNET Project, and is strongly encouraged. As with the other JNET Executive Council appointments, non-Executive branch agencies will be required to select a permanent designee, who will represent the agency at all JNET Executive Council meetings.

 The JNET Steering Committee shall establish a tactical plan for the deployment of JNET Project functionality and associated information sharing requirements. Policies set forth by the Steering Committee shall reflect the means by which participating agencies shall share data stored in agency-specific information systems to maximize access to, and the use of, existing databases and platforms.

   (1)  Composition. The JNET Steering Committee shall include representatives from the following agencies as selected by the agency heads:

     (i)   Pennsylvania State Police.

     (ii)   Department of Corrections.

     (iii)   Board of Probation and Parole.

     (iv)   Board of Pardons.

     (v)   Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission.

     (vi)   Commission on Crime and Delinquency.

     (vii)   Department of Public Welfare.

     (viii)   Department of Transportation.

     (ix)   Office of Attorney General.

     (x)   Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

     (xi)   Governor’s Policy Office (ex-officio member).

     (xii)   Governor’s Office of Administration (ex-officio member).

     (xiii)   Governor’s Office of the Budget (ex-officio member).

     (xiv)   Office of General Counsel (ex-officio member).

     (xv)   Office of Inspector General (ex-officio member).

 The JNET Office will be managed by an Executive Director, who will direct day-to-day management, development and implementation of the JNET Project.

   (1)  Composition. The Executive Director, in consultation with the Office of Administration’s Office of Personnel Services and the JNET Steering Committee, shall determine the appropriate staffing levels and associated classifications necessary to support JNET Office operations.

   (2)  Organizational location. The JNET Office is located within the Office of Administration, Office for Information Technology, and reports to the Deputy Secretary for Information Technology. JNET Office priorities shall be established by the JNET Steering Committee within the overall strategic direction set forth by the JNET Executive Council.

Subchapter D. [Reserved]

Subchapter E. HOMELAND SECURITY ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Sec.

 The goals of the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Organizational Structure are to:

   (1)  Oversee preparedness strategies and plans within this Commonwealth by ensuring that the focus of preparedness efforts remain an all-hazards approach in preparing for, preventing, and responding to incidents or events which have actual, potential, domestic or international implications.

   (2)  Coordinate local, State and Federal homeland security and emergency preparedness efforts within this Commonwealth.

   (3)  Enhance the integration of disciplines involved in preparedness.

   (4)  Develop the necessary relationships among public and private sector entities to effectively coordinate this Commonwealth’s overarching preparedness efforts.

   (5)  Reduce this Commonwealth’s vulnerability by identifying, preventing, countering and neutralizing domestic terrorism, natural disasters and health-related epidemics.

   (6)  Create, for the purposes of prevention and response, an all-hazards information fusion capability to facilitate information collection, analysis and intelligence production and sharing functions.

   (7)  Set forth necessary plans and actions to ensure the preservation of critical infrastructures including, but not limited to, the 13 critical infrastructure sectors and four key resource categories, as defined by the Federal Department of Homeland Security.

   (8)  Coordinate the administration of all grants for homeland security and public safety to ensure their integration across disciplines and agencies to enhance this Commonwealth’s preparedness strategy.

   (9)  Build upon the existing homeland security and crisis response infrastructure by unifying and maximizing our assets and acquiring resources.

 The Office of Homeland Security (Office) is managed by a Director of Homeland Security (Director), who serves as this Commonwealth’s primary point-of-contact on homeland security issues and the Governor’s senior advisor on homeland security issues.

   (1)  Responsibilities. The Office shall:

     (i)   Make recommendations to the Governor on issues that affect the security of this Commonwealth.

     (ii)   Review and make recommendations to the Governor regarding pending legislation and regulations that pertain to homeland security.

     (iii)   Submit to the Governor an annual report on homeland security activities.

     (iv)   Monitor government grant and private sector funding opportunities that may be used to strengthen homeland security efforts and resources.

     (v)   Convene the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Executive Cabinet, as needed.

     (vi)   Convene, at least semiannually, the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council and coordinate its participation in citizen corps and related activities.

     (vii)   Establish, on behalf of the Governor, working groups and steering committees, as needed, to set forth the goals of the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Organization.

     (viii)   Coordinate training, planning, exercise and outreach efforts to heighten awareness, preparedness and the need for planning at all levels of government and citizenry.

     (ix)   Adopt rules of procedure consistent with this subchapter.

   (2)  Organizational location. The Office will be located within the Governor’s Executive Offices and the Director reports to the Governor.

 (a)  Responsibilities. The Governor’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Executive Cabinet (Executive Cabinet) coordinates Commonwealth Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness plans, procedures, policies, resources and capabilities necessary to fulfill the Commonwealth’s responsibilities in prevention, protection, response and recovery.

 (b)  Composition. The Executive Cabinet shall be composed of the:

   (1)  Governor.

   (2)  Governor’s Chief of Staff.

   (3)  Governor’s General Counsel.

   (4)  Director of Homeland Security.

   (5)  Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

   (6)  Adjutant General of Pennsylvania.

   (7)  Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.

   (8)  Secretary of Health.

   (9)  Secretary of General Services.

   (10)  Secretary of Administration.

 The purpose of the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council (Council) is to advise the Director of the Office of Homeland Security on matters relating to homeland security.

   (1)  Composition. The Council shall be composed of the Director of the Office of Homeland Security and representatives from public and private sector entities, as selected and appointed by the Governor, with a total appointed membership not to exceed 25. Other nonappointed members may participate, as directed by the Governor, to address needs as they may arise.

   (2)  Chairperson. The Governor will designate, to serve at the pleasure of the Governor, one person from the Council membership as chairperson of the Council.

   (3)  Terms. Membership terms on the Council are for 3 years. Each member shall serve until the expiration of the term to which the member was appointed or until death, resignation, or removal. There is no limit to the number of consecutive terms a member can serve.

 Executive Order 2002-11, Pennsylvania Homeland Security Organizational Structure, is rescinded.

Subchapter F. COMMONWEALTH CONTINUITY OF GOVERNMENT STEERING COMMITTEE

Sec.

 The mission of the Commonwealth Continuity of Government Steering Committee is to:

   (1)  Provide guidelines, oversight and policy direction to agency heads on internal agency emergency plans.

   (2)  Provide feedback to the Governor and to agency heads on needs for internal emergency prevention, preparation, response and recovery measures.

 (a)  The Secretary of Administration serves as Chairperson and other members of the Commonwealth Continuity of Government Steering Committee (Steering Committee) consist of the:

   (1)  Secretary of General Services.

   (2)  Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

   (3)  Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.

   (4)  Secretary of Health.

   (5)  Director of Homeland Security.

   (6)  Other members as directed by the Governor.

 (a)  The Secretary of Administration is responsible for ensuring that comprehensive emergency preparedness/business continuity plans exist in all agencies to minimize any disruption of services and to support the continued mission of all Commonwealth agencies. The Secretary of Administration is responsible for reporting to the Governor and communicating to agencies on Commonwealth Continuity of Government Steering Committee policy direction and guidelines and serving as Secretary to the Executive Board for exceptional actions during emergencies. The Secretary of Administration shall provide direction and guidelines for human resource and information technology as part of an overall emergency preparedness, response and recovery plan.

 (b)  The Secretary of General Services is responsible for:

   (1)  Capitol Police preparation for and prevention of emergencies and coordination of emergency response in buildings under their jurisdiction.

   (2)  Central law enforcement reporting and monitoring during emergencies at Commonwealth facilities.

   (3)  Acquisition and maintenance of protective features in facilities owned or leased by the Department of General Services.

   (4)  Guidelines for protective features in facilities housing State operations not owned or leased by the Department of General Services.

   (5)  Guidelines for responding to bomb threats or other terroristic acts.

   (6)  Design specifications for new Commonwealth buildings and facilities.

 (c)  The Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency is responsible for:

   (1)  Providing consultation and assistance to all Commonwealth agencies on the development of agency specific annexes to the State Emergency Operations Plan.

   (2)  Assisting the Secretaries of Health and General Services with providing guidance and direction on agency emergency medical, evacuation or other types of emergency response plans.

   (3)  Coordinating emergency response for government and nongovernment entities for local, regional or Statewide emergencies.

   (4)  Developing, maintaining and promulgating the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Emergency Operations Plan and coordinating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

   (5)  Directing the Commonwealth Emergency Operations Center for State agency use.

   (6)  Assisting State agencies on recovery efforts after an emergency.

   (7)  Other articles pursuant to 35 Pa.C.S. (relating to health and safety).

 (d)  The Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police is responsible for:

   (1)  Statewide coordination of police activities.

   (2)  Response to emergencies at State facilities not under the jurisdiction of other police authorities.

   (3)  Statewide investigations and surveillance regarding emergencies.

   (4)  Coordination with Federal law enforcement officials and law enforcement officials from other states.

   (5)  Criminal background checks, and related activities associated with emergencies.

   (6)  Forensic laboratory services associated with emergencies.

 (e)  The Secretary of Health is responsible for:

   (1)  Public health leadership and direction during emergencies.

   (2)  Assisting State agencies with assessing vulnerability for public health threats and developing prevention strategies.

   (3)  Responding to inquiries and needs for assistance during potential public health emergencies.

   (4)  Assisting with response, investigation and recovery when a public health emergency has occurred that affects Commonwealth operations.

 This order shall take effect immediately and rescinds Executive Order 2002-1, dated March 22, 2002.

Subchapter G. GOVERNOR’S TASK FORCE ON EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION

Sec.

 The Governor’s Task Force on Early Childhood Care and Education (Task Force) has the powers and duties to do the following:

   (1)  Serve in an advisory capacity.

   (2)  Assess the current menu of early care and education programs and services offered or funded by the Commonwealth for children and their families.

   (3)  Develop a model for the identification of programs that have a sufficient basis in science and a demonstrated record of effectiveness for discussion by the Task Force.

   (4)  Develop a comprehensive listing of programs meeting the effectiveness standards developed under paragraph (3).

   (5)  Provide per participant cost estimates for each program included in the list of effective programs.

 (a)  The Governor’s Task Force on Early Childhood Care and Education (Task Force) consists of certain designated public officials and other individuals appointed by the Governor. The membership includes the heads of agencies of the Commonwealth that have responsibilities in the development, funding or regulation of early care and education programming, as well as various early care and education stakeholders. The Task Force consists of the following members:

   (1)  The Secretary of Education.

   (2)  The Secretary of Public Welfare.

   (3)  The Secretary of Health.

   (4)  The Physician General.

   (5)  Representatives from each of the following stakeholder groups:

     (i)   Child advocacy community.

     (ii)   Business community.

     (iii)   Faith community.

     (iv)   School administrator.

     (v)   Civic, not-for-profit organization.

     (vi)   Statewide professional childcare organization.

     (vii)   Local community partnerships.

     (viii)   Public health/medical community.

     (ix)   Head Start provider.

     (x)   Child care provider.

     (xi)   Family literacy community.

     (xii)   Clinical practitioner (psychologist, psychiatrist).

     (xiii)   Family-based programs.

     (xiv)   K-3 educator.

     (xv)   Philanthropic organization.

     (xvi)   Public outreach and education professional.

 (b)  The Governor will designate a member or members to serve as the Task Force Chairperson.

 (c)  The Governor’s Community Partnership for Safe Children, or its successor entity, shall provide administrative support to the Task Force.

 (d)  The Governor will designate an individual or individuals to provide project direction and advice to the Chairperson.

 (e)  A Task Force member may designate an alternate to attend Task Force meetings, if required.

 (a)  Members of the Governor’s Task Force on Early Childhood Care and Education (Task Force) serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 This subchapter shall continue in force until rescinded or superseded by order of the Governor.

Subchapter H. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION

Sec.

§ 6.71. Establishment.

 (a)  In accordance with an appropriate resolution of its governing board, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (Agency) shall provide appropriate support services and other resources for the operation of the Office of Housing and Community Revitalization (Office).

 (b)  The staff of the Office serves as part of the complement of the Agency, but the substantive operations of the Office shall be conducted independently of the Agency.

 (c)  The operations of the Office shall be consistent with Agency policies and procedures, including its fiscal and audit requirements.

 (d)  The Office shall annually provide an accounting of all expenditures made by the Office to the Agency.

 The responsibilities of the Office of Housing and Community Revitalization (Office) shall be to:

   (1)  Coordinate overall housing policy for the Commonwealth.

   (2)  Serve as primary liaison among all State agency programs, resources and policy areas involved in housing and community revitalization.

   (3)  Make recommendations to the Governor on housing policy and community revitalization matters, including legislative issues and program development, and advise the Governor of the results of the recommendations.

   (4)  Represent the Governor in developing partnerships with appropriate public and private housing agencies, including the Federal Home Loan Banks, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Rural Housing Services and foundations and other charitable entities. In these activities, the Office shall coordinate its efforts with those of the Agency and the Department of Community and Economic Development.

   (5)  Participate in special projects as directed by the Governor.

   (6)  Exercise other responsibilities and duties as directed by the Governor.

GOVERNOR’S HOUSING CABINET

§ 6.81. Establishment and membership.

 (a)  The Governor’s Housing Cabinet (Cabinet) is established and consists, at a minimum, of the following members:

   (1)  Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Housing and Community Revitalization, who is chairperson of the Cabinet.

   (2)  The Secretary of Banking.

   (3)  The Secretary of Community and Economic Development.

   (4)  The Secretary of Environmental Protection.

   (5)  The Secretary of Labor and Industry.

   (6)  The Secretary of Public Welfare.

   (7)  The Secretary of Transportation.

   (8)  The Secretary of Aging.

   (9)  The Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST).

   (10)  The Governor’s Chief of Staff or a designee.

   (11)  The General Counsel or a designee.

   (12)  The Governor’s Director of Policy or a designee.

 The Governor’s Housing Cabinet (Cabinet) has the following powers and duties:

   (1)  Advise and assist the Governor and the Office of Housing and Community Revitalization in identifying opportunities to improve the management or operation of State government programs affecting housing.

   (2)  Assist in the development and implementation of housing strategies and programs, including the identification of barriers to sound housing policy and program efficiency and appropriate program performance measures.

   (3) Assist in evaluating the efficacy of the management of housing programs.

   (4) Carry out other responsibilities assigned to the Cabinet by the Governor.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMONWEALTH AGENCIES

§ 6.91. Cooperation by Commonwealth agencies.

 The Office of Housing and Community Revitalization (Office) does not have direct responsibility for the day-to-day operations of any State agency. Commonwealth agencies under the direction of the Governor shall cooperate with the Office and the Governor’s Housing Cabinet (Cabinet). At a minimum, Commonwealth agencies shall:

   (1)  Provide information, records and materials as necessary for the Office and the Cabinet to carry out their responsibilities.

   (2)  Recommend to the Office and the Cabinet areas of investigation that might result in improvements to State government housing programs.

TERM

§ 6.101. Effective date.

 This subchapter shall take effect immediately and shall expire September 11, 2006.

Subchapter I. GOVERNOR’S CABINET ON CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Sec.

 The Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Families (Cabinet) will have the power to:

   (1)  Review and evaluate State government programs that provide services for children and families.

   (2)  Review and evaluate the policies of State government agencies that affect the health and well-being of children and families and make recommendations to the Governor regarding the policies.

   (3)  Maximize the coordination of programs that affect children and families between and among State government agencies.

   (4)  Recommend the creation of new programs to serve the unmet needs of children and families.

   (5)  Identify program measures to evaluate the efficacy of State government programs affecting children and families, to redirect, revamp, consolidate or eliminate the programs.

 (a)  The Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Families (Cabinet) will consist of the Secretary of Public Welfare who will serve as Chairperson. The Chairperson will designate an individual to serve as Executive Director. Members include the following:

   (1)  The Secretary of Education.

   (2)  The Secretary of Health.

   (3)  The Secretary of Labor and Industry.

   (4)  The Insurance Commissioner.

   (5)  The Director of the Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform.

   (6)  The Director of the Governor’s Office of Policy or the Director’s designee.

   (7)  The Chairperson of the Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission.

   (8)  The Chairperson of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.

   (9)  The Governor’s Chief of Staff or a designee.

   (10)  The Secretary of the Budget or a designee.

 Commonwealth agencies under the direction of the Governor shall cooperate with the Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Families (Cabinet). At a minimum, Commonwealth agencies will:

   (1)  Provide staff resources, information, records and materials, as necessary, for the Cabinet to carry out its responsibilities.

   (2)  Implement program improvements identified and adopted by the Cabinet.

   (3)  Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of management and productivity improvements.

 (a)  The Governor will appoint a Commission on Children and Families (Commission) to assist and advise the Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Families to:

   (1)  Identify policy, program and systemic barriers that prevent State and local governments from effectively and efficiently serving the needs of children and families.

   (2)  Formulate remedies and solutions to identified problems.

 Members of the Commission on Children and Families will receive no compensation for their services, except that the members may be reimbursed for actual travel and related expenses in accordance with Commonwealth policy. See Chapter 40 (relating to travel and subsistence).

Subchapter J. ADVISORY COUNCILS FOR HUNTING, FISHING AND CONSERVATION

GOVERNOR’S ADVISOR FOR HUNTING, FISHING AND CONSERVATION

Sec.

§ 6.131. Appointment.

   The powers and duties of the Governor’s Advisor for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Advisor) are as follows:

   (1)  The Advisor functions as the Governor’s principal advocate for hunters, anglers, trappers and other conservationists, and reviews both pending and existing laws, policies and programs affecting wildlife conservation and outdoors recreation. As the Governor’s advocate, the Advisor acts as liaison between the Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Council) and the Governor, making recommendations based on a consensus of opinion from Council members and presenting the Governor with the Council’s policy recommendations.

   (2)  The Governor will assign to the Advisor other related tasks and responsibilities that the Governor might deem appropriate, including: working to improve outdoor tourism opportunities; working on Federal and State initiatives that benefit hunters, anglers, trappers and other conservationists; and working on issues related to hunter, trapper, and angler recruitment and retention. The Governor also will direct the Advisor to represent him at meetings, events and other activities, as appropriate.

   (3)  The Advisor will help to promote the Governor’s conservation agenda. In addition to working with other State agencies, the Advisor will develop and maintain a strong working relationship with the General Assembly, especially the members of the House and Senate Game and Fisheries Committees.

   (4)  The Advisor will direct the activities and agenda of the Council and conduct its meetings. In his sole discretion, the Advisor may delegate defined responsibilities to individual Council members, as necessary, and may create committees within Council to accomplish specific goals or tasks, as deemed appropriate. With the approval of the Governor, the Advisor may remove and replace Council members.

   (5)  The Advisor, with the approval of the Governor, may employ other persons as needed for the proper administration of the program.

GOVERNOR’S ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR HUNTING, FISHING AND CONSERVATION

§ 6.141. Purpose.

 The powers and duties of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation will be to:

   (1)  Review and make written recommendations to the Governor’s Advisor for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Advisor) regarding any issue that might affect the recreational use of this Commonwealth’s natural resources.

   (2)  Review and make written recommendations to the Advisor regarding policies adopted or regulations promulgated by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources or the Department of Environmental Protection, that might affect the recreational uses of this Commonwealth’s natural resources.

   (3)  Review and make written recommendations to the Advisor regarding pending legislation and proposed regulations that might affect the recreational uses of this Commonwealth’s natural resources.

   (4)  Review with the Advisor, at the direction of the Governor, the qualifications of candidates for appointment to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Pennsylvania Game Commission and to assist the Advisor in making recommendations to the Governor.

   (5)  Convene at least four times per year and at the call of the Advisor.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Council) will consist of at least 12, but no more than 26, residents of this Commonwealth appointed by the Governor to serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (b)  Elected state officials and employees of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Game Commission and members of their immediate families are not eligible for membership on the Council.

 (c)  The Council shall represent a broad-based group of stakeholders, all of whom have an intrinsic interest in the wildlife resources of this Commonwealth. The members shall support hunting, trapping and angling as a valuable and accepted method of wildlife management.

 (a)  Members of Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation will be appointed for a term of 1 year and will continue to serve thereafter until their successors have been appointed and qualified. All members serve at the pleasure of the Governor and will be expected to contribute in a meaningful manner and attend meetings regularly.

 The Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Council) and the Governor’s Advisor for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation shall submit an annual report to the Governor outlining the Council’s activities and accomplishments for the year.

GOVERNOR’S YOUTH COUNCIL FOR HUNTING, FISHING AND CONSERVATION

§ 6.151. Purpose.

 Subject to the direction of the Governor’s Advisor for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Advisor) and the Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Council), the Governor’s Youth Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation shall endeavor to:

   (1)  Advise the Council on wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation issues that pertain directly to the youth of this Commonwealth.

   (2)  Identify barriers and obstacles preventing youth participation in wildlife conservation and recreation.

   (3)  Recommend new strategies to interest youth in wildlife conservation and recreation to retain their interests and involvement.

   (4)  Assist the natural resource agencies within this Commonwealth with youth programs and issues relating to wildlife conservation and recreation.

   (5)  Convene at least four times per year and at the call of the Advisor.

 The members of the Governor’s Youth Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Youth Council) will be appointed by the Governor and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The membership of the Youth Council will consist of the following:

   (1)  At least 20 residents of this Commonwealth between the ages of 14 and 18.

   (a)  One member will be elected by the Governor’s Youth Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation (Youth Council) to serve as chairperson for 1 academic year (September 1—August 31). Other officers may be elected by the members of the Youth Council and will serve for 1 academic year.

   (a)  Members of the Governor’s Youth Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation will be appointed for a term of 1 year and will continue to serve thereafter until successors have been appointed and qualified. Members will serve at the pleasure of the Governor and will be expected to contribute in a meaningful manner and attend meetings regularly.

 By August 31, the Governor’s Youth Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation shall submit an annual report to the Governor’s Advisor for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation, outlining its activities and accomplishments for the year.

EFFECTIVENESS OF SUBCHAPTER

§ 6.161. Effective date.

 Executive Order 2001-5 is rescinded.

Subchapter K. GOVERNOR’S ADVISORY COMMISSION ON ASIAN-AMERICAN AFFAIRS

Sec.

 The functions of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian-American Affairs are:

   (1)  Advise and make recommendations to the Governor on policies, procedures, legislation and regulations that affect the Asian-American community and that will enable the Commonwealth to be responsive to the needs of the Asian-American community.

   (2)  Develop, review and recommend to the Governor policies in the areas of health and human services, housing, education, employment, business formation and development, public accommodations and in contracting practices and procedures.

   (3)  Serve as the Governor’s liaison to the Asian-American community on policies, procedures, legislation and regulations that affect the Asian-American community to ensure that State government is accessible, accountable and responsive to the Asian-American community.

   (4)  Serve as a liaison to Federal, State and local agencies to ensure that programs affecting Asian-Americans are effectively utilized and that benefits accrue equitably to members of the Asian-American community.

   (5)  Work with the Governor’s Office and the Asian-American community to promote legislation that ensures the equitable treatment of all citizens of this Commonwealth.

   (6)  Serve as a resource to all departments, commissions and agencies to ensure that they are cognizant of the needs of the Asian-American community and that this community benefits in an equitable fashion from their respective services and programs.

   (7)  Serve as a resource for community groups on Asian-American issues, programs, sources of funding and compliance requirements within State government for the benefit and advancement of Asian-Americans.

   (8)  Assist local Asian-American community groups in developing strategies and programs that will expand and enhance the social, cultural and economic status of the Asian-American community.

   (9)  Work with the administration to monitor the hiring, retention and promotion practices of the Commonwealth as they relate to the employment of Asian-Americans to ensure that there are no discriminatory employment practices within this Commonwealth.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian-American Affairs (Commission) consists of 15 members to be appointed by the Governor who are representatives of this Commonwealth’s Asian-American community and others who may make the work of the Commission more meaningful, efficient and productive. The Governor may occasionally also appoint special members of the Commission to assist in unique cultural exchanges, economic development programs or gubernatorial initiatives.

 (b)  The Governor will designate one Commission member to serve as chairperson and one to serve as vice-chairperson of the Commission. The chairperson and vice-chairperson will serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (a)  Members will be appointed for a term of 2 years. The members serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (a)  The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian-American Affairs (Commission) is authorized to establish subcommittees and rules and procedures for the effective implementation of its functions consistent with this subchapter.

 This subchapter takes effect immediately and will continue in effect unless revised or modified by the Governor.

Subchapter L. PENNSYLVANIA BUSINESS TAX REFORM COMMISSION

Sec.

 (a)  The Pennsylvania Business Tax Reform Commission (Commission) will explore viable options for increasing fairness and competitiveness in the business tax structure of this Commonwealth. The Commission will also find solutions to ensure that the portion of State general funds derived from direct business taxes is not diminished, and that any decrease in tax rates is offset by new taxes or a broadening of the tax base to ensure revenue neutrality.

 (b)  The Commission will provide a report that thoroughly discusses options and viable recommendations considered and express clear rationales for options not recommended. Specific tax changes recommended by the Commission will be included in the report. The Commission will present to the Governor its recommendations for change in this Commonwealth’s tax structure consistent with the purposes of the Commission.

 (a)  The Secretary of Revenue will chair the Pennsylvania Business Tax Reform Commission (Commission) and will serve as a member.

 (b)  The Commission will consist of 12 members. Seven members will be appointed by the Governor. The appointees will be members of various constituencies affected by or knowledgeable about the business tax climate of this Commonwealth. These constituencies include corporations, tax preferred entities, tax policy experts and tax practitioners. Three of the Governor’s seven appointees, one from each organization, will be members of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the Pennsylvania Business Roundtable and Team Pennsylvania.

 (c)  Each of the four caucuses within the Legislature will select one private sector citizen business representative from constituencies affected by or knowledgeable about Pennsylvania’s business taxes to serve on the Commission.

 The Pennsylvania Business Tax Reform Commission will prepare a written report for submission to the Governor and the General Assembly, as required by §  6.192(b) (relating to tasks), on or before November 30, 2004.

 This subchapter will take effect immediately and will continue in effect until rescinded.

Subchapter M. FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND LITERACY

Sec.

 The Office of Financial Education (Office) is created.

   (1)  Responsibilities. The Office will be responsible for:

     (i)   Coordinating financial education programs across Commonwealth agencies.

     (ii)   Developing and maintaining a comprehensive database of financial education programs, materials and resources.

     (iii)   Providing support for the Task Force on Working Families.

     (iv)   Advising the Governor and other State agencies on financial education matters.

     (v)   Representing the Commonwealth in developing partnerships with appropriate public and private financial education agencies.

     (vi)   Performing other duties assigned by the Governor or the Secretary of Banking.

   (2)  Director. The Office will be headed by a Director of Financial Education.

 The Governor’s Task Force (Task Force) for Working Families is created.

   (1)  Responsibilities. The Task Force will be responsible for:

     (i)   Identifying and developing strategies and programs to:

       (A)   Build incomes and assets for working families.

       (B)   Promote financial education and literacy.

       (C)   Protect working families from predatory and abusive financial services.

     (ii)   Promoting the coordination of programs that affect the financial viability of working families.

     (iii)   Working with charitable foundations, local government, advocacy groups, community and religious leaders, academia, policy and research organizations, and other entities, as may be appropriate.

   (2)  Report. The Task Force shall issue a final report to the Governor containing its findings and recommendations and conclude its work by March 1, 2005.

   (3)  Membership. The Task Force shall consist of the following members, when appropriate, to be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Governor will appoint two members to serve as Co-Chairs of the Task Force.

     (i)   Adjutant General.

     (ii)   Secretary of Aging.

     (iii)   Secretary of Banking.

     (iv)   Secretary of the Budget.

     (v)   Secretary of Community and Economic Development.

     (vi)   Secretary of Education.

     (vii)   Insurance Commissioner.

     (viii)   Secretary of Labor and Industry.

     (ix)   Secretary of Public Welfare.

     (x)   Secretary of Revenue.

     (xi)   Secretary of the Commonwealth.

     (xii)   A member of the Securities Commission.

     (xiii)   President of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

     (xiv)   Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

     (xv)   Director of the Governor’s Policy Office.

     (xvi)   Four members of the House of Representatives, two appointed by the Majority Leader, and two by the Minority Leader.

     (xvii)   Four members of the Senate, two appointed by the Majority Leader, and two by the Minority Leader.

     (xviii)   Representatives of the financial services industry, social service agencies, business organizations, organized labor and other advocacy organizations, to ensure broad representation of interests.

 This subchapter takes effect immediately.

Subchapter N. TRANSPORTATION FUNDING AND REFORM COMMISSION

Sec.

 (a)  The Transportation Funding and Reform Commission (Commission) consists of nine members appointed as follows:

   (1)  One by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

   (2)  One by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

   (3)  One by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

   (4)  One by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

   (5)  Five by the Governor.

 (b)  Members of the Commission will be appointed by March 28, 2005.

 (c)  Of those members appointed by the Governor, at least one shall be a resident of the County of Philadelphia and at least one shall be a resident of the County of Allegheny. One of the appointees of the Governor shall be the Secretary of Transportation, who serves as the Chairperson of the Commission.

 (d)  To the greatest degree possible, appointees should have a background in transportation policy and management, public finance, or institutional management and reform.

 (a)  The Transportation Funding and Reform Commission (Commission) shall conduct or cause to be conducted an operational audit of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority, the Port Authority of Allegheny County and other transit agencies receiving funding from the Commonwealth as it deems appropriate. The audits must determine if opportunities exist to implement cost efficiencies, revenue enhancements and service improvements that would be in the best interest of the users of these systems and of the Commonwealth and its citizens. The audits must include an assessment of employee roles, responsibilities and compensation.

 (b)  The Commission shall study and make recommendations regarding appropriate levels of funding and sources of funding for transportation in this Commonwealth for the coming years, for transit and for roads and bridges, and for operating costs and capital investments. Regardless of what levels of funding are recommended, the Commission shall assess the need for adjustment to the methods by which funding is provided, the appropriate mix of State and local funding, and the structure of State funding programs.

 (c)  The Commission shall assess the structure of this Commonwealth’s transit agencies and assess whether changes to their underlying structure can improve service, reduce costs and increase efficiency. This review shall include board structure and responsibilities and options for changes to asset ownership and operations, including competitive contracting.

 (d)  The Commission shall assess the relationship of growth and development patterns and policies to this Commonwealth’s transportation systems, particularly fixed rail systems. In metropolitan areas around the United States, policies are being put in place to encourage development patterns that are easily served by transit and lead to fewer car trips and less congestion, and the Commission shall assess the opportunity to implement similar policies in this Commonwealth.

 (e)  In addition to the items enumerated in subsections (a)—(d), the Commission may investigate other related matters as it deems appropriate.

 The Transportation Funding and Reform Commission shall commence its work as soon as possible after its members are appointed and disband upon the issuance of a final report.

Subchapter O. TRAINING AMERICA’S TEACHERS COMMISSION

Sec.

 The Training America’s Teachers Commission shall:

   (1)  Conduct qualitative and quantitative research, which includes this Commonwealth, National and international studies.

   (2)  Identify and benchmark signature teacher preparation programs both in this Commonwealth and elsewhere.

   (3)  Gather input from stakeholders across this Commonwealth by providing avenues for discourse that include teachers, parents, business leaders, and key legislative representatives and staff.

 The Training America’s Teachers Commission shall examine and make specific recommendations:

   (1)  For enhancing the effectiveness of teacher preparation programs in this Commonwealth.

   (2)  To link PreK-12 education with the preparation of teachers in this Commonwealth.

 (a)  The Training America’s Teachers Commission (Commission) will be chaired by a prominent Pennsylvanian, and its members will consist of a wide spectrum of stakeholders that include the following:

   (1)  The Secretary of Education.

   (2)  The Deputy Secretary of the Office of Postsecondary and Higher Education.

   (3)  The Deputy Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education.

   (4)  The Secretary of Policy and Planning.

   (5)  Two members of the Senate or staff designees, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate and one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

   (6)  Two members of the House of Representatives or staff designees, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, and one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

   (7)  Representatives from each of the following stakeholder groups:

     (i)   Public PreK-12 education, including administrators, teachers and parents.

     (ii)   College and university teacher preparation programs.

     (iii)   College and university administration.

     (iv)   Civic and business leaders.

     (v)   At least one student enrolled in a teacher preparation program.

     (vi)   The State Board of Education.

 (b)  A Commission Steering Committee, appointed by the Secretary of Education and composed of select members of the Commission, will direct the work of the Commission with the assistance of a consultant who will help manage the process, facilitate key session, conduct necessary research and produce a final report.

 (c)  The Department of Education will provide administrative support of the Commission.

 (a)  Members of the Training America’s Teachers Commission (Commission) serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 This subchapter shall continue in force until August 10, 2006.

Subchapter P. GOVERNOR’S RENEWABLE AGRICULTURAL
ENERGY COUNCIL

Sec.

 The functions of the Governor’s Renewable Agricultural Energy Council are to:

   (1)  Make recommendations to the Governor on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that would aid in the development of renewable energy.

   (2)  Serve as the Governor’s liaison to the agricultural community on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that affect the production of renewable energy to ensure that State government is accessible, accountable and responsive to the constituency developing renewable energy.

   (3)  Serve as a resource to all departments, commissions and agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction to ensure that these government entities are cognizant of the issues surrounding the development of renewable energy.

 The Governor’s Renewable Agricultural Energy Council is composed of the following individuals appointed by the Governor:

   (1)  The Secretary of Agriculture or a designee and the Secretary of Environmental Protection or a designee.

   (2)  Two representatives from the Department of Environmental Protection.

   (3)  Two representatives from the Department of Agriculture.

   (4)  One representative from the State Conservation Commission.

   (5)  One representative from the Governor’s Policy Office.

   (6)  One representative from the Department of Community and Economic Development.

   (7)  One representative from the Legislature.

   (8)  One representative from the United States Department of Agriculture.

   (9)  One representative from a local government entity.

   (10)  Five active farmers who implement, use or produce agricultural energy inputs.

   (11)  Four individuals with knowledge and expertise in agricultural energy and environmental law, regulation and research, including ethanol, biodiesel, wind energy, methane and gasification.

 (a)  The terms of the Secretaries of Agriculture and Environmental Protection are concurrent with their holding public office.

 This subchapter remains in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter Q. ENTERPRISE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GOVERNANCE BOARD

Sec.

 (a)  The Enterprise Information Technology (IT) Governance Board (Board) will:

   (1)  Define a strategic vision for Commonwealth IT operations.

   (2)  Establish program priorities.

   (3)  Approve IT planning.

   (4)  Direct IT investments.

   (5)  Oversee IT purchasing and policy.

 (a)  The Governor will designate one person from the Enterprise Information Technology Board (Board) to serve as chairperson for the purposes of convening meetings and conducting business.

 (b)  The Board will be composed of the following:

   (1)  Secretary of Administration.

   (2)  Secretary of the Budget.

   (3)  Secretary of General Services.

   (4)  Governor’s Chief of Staff.

   (5)  Deputy Secretary for Information Technology/Office of Administration, who serve as the Commonwealth’s Chief Information Officer.

 The Governor’s Office of Administration, Office for Information Technology (IT) will be responsible for:

   (1)  Implementing policy, planning, and budget directives adopted by the Enterprise Information Technology Governance Board (Board), including monitoring projects approved by the Board.

   (2)  Making recommendations to the Governor through the Board on IT-related budget requests; monitoring annual enterprise-wide IT spending; and reviewing and approving, prior to submission to the Department of General Services, IT sole source requests as well as providing pre-issuance approval for all agency Requests for Proposal, Invitation to Qualify scopes of work greater than an amount specified by the Board, and IT Emergency Contracts.

   (3)  Assisting in drafting IT procurement documents, participate in procurement review and evaluation processes and assist in negotiating final IT contracts. This must adhere to the Commonwealth procurement and technology policy directives.

   (4)  Providing project management resources as directed by the Board to oversee and manage agency IT projects.

   (5)  Providing business process reengineering resources as directed by the Board to facilitate the analysis of business process changes prior to the initiation of an IT project.

   (6)  Reviewing and approving all aspects of the project implementation including change order management, deliverable payments and final acceptance for projects determined by the Board.

   (7)  Creating and maintaining a current Enterprise IT inventory.

   (8)  Managing a communities of practice planning process.

   (9)  Reviewing and approving all agency and central IT senior management appointments through the Deputy Secretary for Information Technology, who will provide a recommendation through the established senior level appointment process to the Governor’s Office for all appointments to chief information officer (CIO) or information technology manager positions.

   (10)  Assisting in the performance appraisal of IT senior management appointments through the Deputy Secretary for Information Technology, who will co-evaluate the performance of CIOs in collaboration with the appropriate, responsible agency official.

   (11)  Establishing an enterprise architecture and deploy enterprise-wide technology, including establishing product standards, technical reviews of agency systems, and establishing security procedures and protocols.

   (12)  Developing and deploying geographic information system and geospatial technology investments, including establishing data development priorities, interoperability and architecture standards for data sharing across agencies and with extended enterprise partners.

   (13)  Establishing and facilitating a process for the identification of IT shared services, and when approved and requested by the Board providing the shared services.

   (14)  As part of the shared services program, establishing and leading an Enterprise Telecommunications Governance Board to ensure consolidation of Commonwealth telecommunications policy, services and infrastructure, when appropriate, and to review and authorize requests for new services. This board will focus on telecommunications as it related to the Commonwealth operations.

   (15)  As directed by the Board, establishing a single IT budget within each agency. When directed establish a single IT budget for each community of practice.

 The Governor’s Office of Administration, Office for Information Technology (IT) will establish a communities of practice (CoP) planning process that will bring together agencies that share program and policy objectives, serve common populations or have compatible data collection and management needs. The CoP process will focus on enterprise IT planning and project prioritization to:

   (1)  Ensure that the IT projects funded in the Governor’s budget are the most critical and are aligned with enterprise goals.

 Each executive agency under the Governor’s jurisdiction shall:

   (1)  Establish a central information technology (IT) organization within their agency to manage IT processes.

   (2)  Submit an annual strategic plan to the Governor’s Office of Administration, Office for Information Technology.

   (3)  Comply with enterprise hardware and software standards established by the Board.

   (4)  Comply with enterprise security policy and conduct periodic security audit.

   (5)  Participate in the identification and recommendation of IT shared services for review and approval by the Board.

   (6)  Provide shared services as requested by the Board.

 This subchapter will remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter R. COMMONWEALTH’S HEALTH CARE REFORM AGENDA

Sec.

 The Office of Health Care Reform shall be managed by the Director of the Office of Health Care Reform (Director), who serves at the pleasure of, and reports directly to, the Governor. The Director, in consultation with the Office of Administration, shall determine the appropriate staffing levels and associated classifications necessary to support the operation of the Office of Health Care Reform.

   (1)  Responsibilities. The purpose of the Office of Health Care Reform is to coordinate the Commonwealth’s Health Care Reform Agenda. In coordinating the Commonwealth’s Health Care Reform Agenda, the Office of Health Care Reform shall:

     (i)   Facilitate the analysis of administrative, fiscal and regulatory policies and practices.

     (ii)   Oversee the redesign of operations and infrastructure.

     (iii)   Direct the creation and maintenance of a system to assure the accountability of designated agencies for their assigned powers, duties and responsibilities.

   (2)  Authority. The Office of Health Care Reform shall, at the direction of the Governor, direct the restructuring of the Commonwealth’s health care system and the implementation of its Health Care Reform Agenda.

   (3)  Reporting. The Office of Health Care Reform will not have line responsibility for day-to-day operations of the departments, agencies, commissions and offices with a health care purview or regulatory function. Certain relevant policy and process experts from throughout the government shall be designated ‘‘on-loan’’ or detailed to report to the Director to aid its mission. In addition, members of the Governor’s Health Care Reform Cabinet shall report to the Office of Health Care Reform and all accountabilities related to the Commonwealth’s Health Care Reform Agenda.

   (4)  Health Care Reform Advisory Council. The Office of Health Care Reform shall establish a Health Care Reform Advisory Council (Advisory Council), consisting of stakeholder experts recommended by the Director and appointed by the Governor. The Advisory Council shall advise the Director, and the Governor’s Health Care Reform Cabinet on matters relating to health care. The Director is the Chairperson of the Advisory Council.

     (i)   Terms. The members of the Advisory Council serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (a)  Responsibilities. The Governor’s Health Care Reform Cabinet shall advise the Director of the Office of Health Care Reform (Director) and the Governor on matters related to health care reform and direct government resources in the implementation of the Health Care Reform Agenda. The Director is the Chairperson for the Governor’s Health Care Reform Cabinet.

 (b)  Composition. The Governor’s Health Care Reform Cabinet consists of the following officials and individuals:

   (1)  The Director of the Office of Health Care Reform.

   (2)  The Secretary of Aging.

   (3)  The Adjutant General.

   (4)  The Secretary of Health.

   (5)  The Commissioner of Insurance.

   (6)  The Secretary of Public Welfare.

   (7)  The Director of the Governor’s Policy Office.

 This subchapter shall remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter S. COMMISSION ON COLLEGE AND CAREER SERVICES

Sec.

 The purpose of the Commission on College and Career Success (Commission) is to:

   (1)  Undertake a comprehensive review of the Commonwealth’s laws, regulations and policies to ascertain whether they set clear and consistent expectations for high school success to ensure that all students graduate ready for college and careers.

   (2)  Conduct qualitative and quantitative research, which includes this Commonwealth, National and international studies.

   (3)  Encourage and endorse strategies for school districts to increase academic achievement and graduation rates in high school.

   (4)  Encourage and endorse strategies for higher education to increase retention through the first 2 years of postsecondary education.

 The responsibilities of the Commission on College and Career Success are to:

   (1)  Define ‘‘college and career ready’’ in Mathematics, English and Science.

   (2)  Examine and make specific recommendations for better alignment of academic standards and assessments across the secondary and post-secondary educational sectors as well as industry in this Commonwealth.

   (3)  Encourage local school districts to adopt a core high school curriculum for all students of this Commonwealth.

   (4)  Present to the Governor a legislative and regulatory package that would address the needs outlined in their findings.

 (a)  The members of the Commission on College and Career Success (Commission) are appointed by the Governor unless otherwise noted and consist of a wide spectrum of stakeholders that include the following:

   (1)  The Governor.

   (2)  The Secretary of Education.

   (3)  Three members of the State Board of Education, one of whom serves as vice-chairperson of the Commission.

   (4)  Three representatives of higher education institutions of this Commonwealth, one of whom serves as co-chairperson of the Commission.

   (5)  Three representatives of the business community, one of whom serves as co-chairperson of the Commission.

   (6)  One local superintendent.

   (7)  One local high school teacher or principal.

   (8)  One member of a local board of school directors.

   (9)  Two members appointed by the Senate, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate and one appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

   (10)  Two members appointed by the House of Representatives, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

 (b)  A Commission member may designate an alternate to attend meetings.

 (c)  Commission work groups, appointed by the Commission chairpersons and composed of select members of the Commission and others, will conduct work as designated by the Commission with the assistance of Department of Education staff and consultants. Work groups and consultants will help facilitate key sessions, conduct necessary research and issue a final report. The topics and tasks of workgroups will be identified by the Commission.

 (d)  The Department of Education will provide administrative support to the Commission.

 (a)  Members of the Commission on College and Career Success (Commission) serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 This subchapter is in force until February 12, 2007.

Subchapter T. GOVERNOR’S INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL

Sec.

 The Governor’s Invasive Species Council:

   (1)  Advises the Governor on and direct the development and implementation of a State invasive species management plan.

   (2)  Provides guidance on prevention, control and rapid response initiatives.

 The Governor’s Invasive Species Council (Council) shall:

   (1)  Develop and implement a comprehensive invasive species management plan for this Commonwealth and revise the plan at regular 5-year intervals or as needed.

   (2)  Provide guidance on prevention and control of invasive species and rapid response to new infestations.

   (3)  Facilitate coordination among Federal, regional, State and local initiatives and organizations engaged in the management of invasive species.

   (4)  Convene at least quarterly and at the call of the chairperson of the Council.

 (a)  The Secretary of Agriculture will serve as Chairperson of the Governor’s Invasive Species Council (Council). The membership will include agency heads of the Commonwealth or their designees responsible for the conservation of agricultural and natural resources and the protection of public health, each of whom shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor, including the following:

   (1)  Secretary of Conservation and Natural Resources.

   (2)  Secretary of Environmental Protection.

   (3)  Secretary of Health.

   (4)  Secretary of Transportation.

   (5)  Executive Director of the Fish and Boat Commission.

   (6)  Executive Director of the Game Commission.

 This subchapter will remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter U. OFFICE OF HEALTH EQUITY

Sec.

 (a)  Establishment. The Office of Health Equity (Office) is hereby established within the Department of Health.

 (b)  Infrastructure. The infrastructure of the Office will, at a minimum, include the Director of the Office and appropriate staff.

 (c)  Responsibilities. The responsibilities of the Office are as follows:

   (1)  Provide leadership to increase public awareness of health disparities in this Commonwealth.

   (2)  Advocate for the development of programs to address health disparities.

   (3)  Work with policy makers, insurers, health care providers and communities to implement policies and programs that result in a measurable and sustained improvement in health status of underserved and disparate populations.

 (a)  Establishment and membership: The Health Equity Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) is hereby established. The membership of the Advisory Committee will be at the discretion of the Secretary of Health and will, at a minimum, include representatives of academia, provider community, faith based community and organized representatives of disparate populations.

 (b)  Powers and duties. The Advisory Committee has the following duties:

   (1)  Advise the Secretary of Health on matters concerning health inequalities and recommend actions which are data-driven, evidence-based and culturally aware; increase public awareness of the existence of health disparities; and mobilize Statewide, community and individual actions to eliminate health disparities in this Commonwealth.

   (2)  Assist in the identification of Federal and private foundation funding to support programs that address health disparities.

   (3)  Assist in identifying the conditions and causes of disparities and prioritizing strategies to address the elimination of health disparities.

   (4)  Enhance the coordination and support of existing Commonwealth programs, including, but not limited to, the following:

     (i)   Identification of evidence-based practices.

     (ii)   Provision of advice and guidance about public and private resources.

     (iii)   Dissemination of information on programs to reduce and eliminate identified disparities.

     (iv)   Utilization of assessment tools to improve cultural competency of health care providers.

 This subchapter will remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter V. PENNSYLVANIA ELECTION REFORM TASK FORCE

Sec.

 (a)  The Pennsylvania Election Reform Task Force (Task Force) shall examine options and make recommendations for changing the date of the Primary Election, including legislative changes, and timelines necessary to achieve the recommended changes.

 (b)  The Task Force shall review all absentee voting statutes, regulations and county practices and recommend legislative or regulatory actions appropriate to improve access to the election process for individuals who cannot get to a polling place on Election Day.

 (c)  The Task Force shall review all absentee voting statutes, regulations and county practices and recommend legislative or regulatory actions necessary to ensure the ability to participate in elections by those subject to the requirements of the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) (42 U.S.C.A. § §  1373ff—1373ff-6 and 18 U.S.C. § §  608 and 609).

 (d)  The Task Force shall examine options and make recommendations to increase voter participation, including early voting, voting by mail or other similar system reforms, while ensuring the privacy and security of all ballots cast.

 (e)  The Task Force shall make recommendations to address specific deficiencies at the State or county level with respect to compliance with the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA) (42 U.S.C.A. § §  15301—15545).

 The Pennsylvania Election Reform Task Force (Task Force) shall consist of 13 members.

   (1)  The Secretary of the Commonwealth shall serve as Chairperson of the Task Force. Four additional members shall be appointed by the Governor and shall represent various constituencies affected by or knowledgeable about the Pennsylvania election processes.

   (2)  Each of the following legislative caucus leaders shall appoint one member of the Task Force. These members shall be private citizens with knowledge of the Pennsylvania election process.

     (i)   The President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

     (ii)   The Minority Leader of the Senate.

     (iii)   The Speaker of the House of Representatives.

     (iv)   The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

   (3)  The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania shall appoint three commissioners, election officials or private citizens to serve on the Task Force.

 This subchapter shall continue in effect until rescinded.

Subchapter W. GOVERNOR’S CABINET FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND GOVERNOR’S ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Sec.

 (a)  Establishment. The Governor’s Cabinet for People with Disabilities (Cabinet) is created.

 (b)  Executive Director. The Governor will appoint an Executive Director of the Cabinet.

 (c)  Membership. The Cabinet shall consist of the following members, who serve by virtue of their public position:

   (1)  Secretary of Public Welfare, who shall serve as Chairperson of the Cabinet.

   (2)  Secretary of Labor and Industry.

   (3)  Secretary of Health.

   (4)  Secretary of Education.

   (5)  Secretary of Transportation.

   (6)  Secretary of the Budget.

   (7)  Secretary of Aging.

   (8)  Secretary of Policy and Planning.

   (9)  Director of the Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform.

   (10)  Chairperson of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

   (11)  Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Housing and Community Revitalization.

   (12)  Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council.

   (13)  Executive Director of the Governor’s Office for People with Disabilities.

   (14)  Executive Director of the Governor’s Long Term Living Council.

 (d)  Responsibilities. The responsibilities of the Cabinet are as follows:

   (1)  Make recommendations to the Governor on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that aid people with disabilities in this Commonwealth.

   (2)  Serve as the Governor’s liaison to people with disabilities on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that affect people with disabilities to ensure that State government is accessible, accountable and responsive to people with disabilities.

   (3)  Serve as a resource to all departments, commissions and agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction to ensure that these government entities are cognizant of the needs of people with disabilities and that their respective services and programs are accessible to those individuals.

 (a)  Establishment and responsibilities. The Governor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities (Committee) is established and shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor’s Cabinet for People with Disabilities in matters regarding people with disabilities in this Commonwealth.

 (b)  Membership. The Committee shall consist of the following members, with a Chairperson to be designated by the Governor:

   (1)  The Governor will appoint as members people with disabilities, including individuals from existing stakeholder groups, in a number as he deems appropriate.

   (2)  At a minimum, 60% of these members shall be people with disabilities or family members of people with disabilities.

   (3)  These Committee members serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

 This subsection shall take effect immediately and remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter X. PENNSYLVANIA ABRAHAM LINCOLN BICENTENNIAL COMMISSION

Sec.

 (a)  The Pennsylvania Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (Commission) is established to organize, arrange and coordinate bicentennial tributes to Abraham Lincoln in this Commonwealth and to coordinate those activities with the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (National Commission) of the Federal government as well as other interested parties.

 The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (Commission) shall include the following individuals or their respective designees:

   (1)  Governor.

   (2)  President of Gettysburg College.

   (3)  Director of the Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College.

   (4)  Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

   (5)  Minority Leader of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

   (6)  President Pro Tempore of the Pennsylvania Senate.

   (7)  Minority Leader of the Pennsylvania Senate.

   (8)  Secretary of the Community and Economic Development.

   (9)  Secretary of Education.

   (10)  Secretary of the Conservation and Natural Resources.

   (11)  Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

   (12)  Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.

   (13)  Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Public Television Network.

   (14)  Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council.

   (15)  Superintendent of the Gettysburg National Military Park.

   (16)  President of the Board of the Philadelphia Area Consortium of Special Collections Libraries.

   (17)  President of the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center.

   (18)  Executive Director of the Abraham Lincoln Foundation of the Union League of Philadelphia.

   (19)  President of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

 The purpose and responsibilities of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission include the following:

   (1)  Lead Pennsylvania’s planning efforts to commemorate the significance of Abraham Lincoln to our State and National history.

   (2)  Make recommendations outlining the most effective and appropriate means for the Commonwealth to commemorate the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration.

   (3)  Identify and pursue resources necessary to effectively communicate and implement commemorative activities.

   (4)  Implement recommendations by working with the Office of the Governor, appropriate State and local government agencies, members of the General Assembly and organizations that are interested in commemorating the life of Abraham Lincoln.

   (5)  Coordinate communications with the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Congressional Caucus to ensure that this Commonwealth will be a significant state for events recognizing the contributions of Abraham Lincoln.

   (6)  Coordinate scheduling of Pennsylvania Abraham Lincoln bicentennial activities and coordinate activities with the National Commission.

   (7)  Submit an annual report to the Governor and the General Assembly summarizing its activities and findings and making recommendations for Abraham Lincoln commemorative activities.

 This subchapter shall take effect immediately and expire December 31, 2009.

Subchapter Y. GOVERNOR’S PANDEMIC ADVISORY COUNCIL

Sec.

 The functions of the Governor’s Pandemic Advisory Council (Council) are to:

   (1)  Make recommendations to the Governor on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that would aid in increasing pandemic preparedness.

   (2)  Assist in raising preparedness levels by participating in local plan-ning, outreach, exercises and regional summits.

   (3)  Create a communications and outreach subcommittee to serve as a resource to the Governor to:

     (i)   Review pandemic preparedness education and outreach efforts and recommend within 180 days of the first meeting of the Council additional methods to enable citizens to better understand the risks and how they should be prepared.

     (ii)   Serve as a resource to all Pennsylvanians to ensure that Pennsylvanians are cognizant of the issues surrounding pandemic planning and preparedness and are prepared to respond.

   (4)  Create a volunteer recruitment and coordination subcommittee to serve as a resource to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health, and to develop a volunteer coordination and recruitment strategy to ensure resources are available locally to meet the needs of the citizens.

 The Governor’s Pandemic Advisory Council (Council) shall be composed of the following individuals:

   (1)  Governor’s Chief of Staff, who shall serve as Chairperson of the Council.

   (2)  Secretary of Agriculture.

   (3)  Secretary of Health.

   (4)  Director of the Bureau of Community Health Systems, Department of Health.

   (5)  Secretary of Administration.

   (6)  Secretary of Policy and Planning.

   (7)  Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.

   (8)  Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

   (9)  Director of Homeland Security.

   (10)  Adjutant General.

   (11)  At least 25 individuals including representatives of the following entities, as appointed by the Governor:

     (i)   Four representatives of local government.

     (ii)   Three representatives of the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services.

     (iii)   Two representatives of county or local government emergency preparedness communities.

     (iv)   Two representatives of universities/colleges.

     (v)   One representative of secondary education.

     (vi)   Three representatives of hospitals.

     (vii)   Three representatives of business/industry, to include one representative from a financial institution.

     (viii)   Three representatives of human service agencies.

     (ix)   Two representatives of faith-based organizations.

     (x)   One representative of a media/communication entity.

 (a)  The terms of the members of the Governor’s Pandemic Advisory Council (Council) shall be 3 years, but an individual may not be term limited.

 The Governor’s Pandemic Advisory Council is authorized to establish subcommittees, rules and procedures for the effective implementation of its functions consistent with this subchapter.

Subchapter Z. SUSTAINABLE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
TASK FORCE

Sec.

 The Sustainable Water Infrastructure Task Force shall issue a report by October 1, 2008, that provides an analysis of the issues related to cost-effective and sustained investment in the water and sewer infrastructure of this Commonwealth, including investigation of potential funding sources and financing options with the goal of including these recommendations in the Governor’s fiscal year 2009-10 budget proposal. This report should address the following issues:

   (1)  The current and projected costs for the construction, upgrade, repair, operation and maintenance of this Commonwealth’s drinking water and sewage infrastructure.

   (2)  The projected cost savings realized by the consideration and implementation of available nonstructural alternatives.

   (3)  The current and projected financial resources to address water and sewer services and infrastructure needs.

   (4)  The current and projected gap between water and sewer service and infrastructure financing needs and available resources.

   (5)  The potential sustainable funding from Federal, State and local sources and public/private partnerships.

   (6)  The actual costs of water and sewer service, including recommendations for allocating the costs of capital investment, asset management, operation and maintenance among customers and State or Federal assistance programs.

   (7)  The targeting of funds to address the most serious and urgent needs of this Commonwealth, with particular focus on protecting public health and safety, maintaining recreational opportunities and encouraging continued economic development.

   (8)  Recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes to promote sustainable water and sewer services, including the following components of sustainability:

     (i)   Effective system management. Creation and implementation of business plans, workforce and management training, and development and the promotion of measures to ensure customer satisfaction and the protection of public health and the environment.

     (ii)   Asset management. Incorporation of accounting and business practices to assess and anticipate operational, replacement and long-term capital improvement costs, and to ensure the improvements are covered by available resources.

     (iii)   Efficient operation. Incorporation of water and energy conservation and system optimization to deliver cost-effective treatments that meet or exceed existing and future public health and environmental standards.

     (iv)   Regionalization. Integrated water resource planning and incentives for consolidation or decentralization of water systems to achieve the best scale to facilitate professional management.

     (v)   Maximization of nonstructural solutions. Integrating conservation, water reuse, trading strategies and comprehensive water resource planning into sewer and water infrastructure planning.

 The Sustainable Water Infrastructure Task Force shall consist of the following members or a designee:

   (1)  The Secretary of Environmental Protection, who serves as Chairperson.

   (2)  The Secretary of Policy and Planning.

   (3)  The Secretary of Community and Economic Development.

   (4)  The Secretary of Banking.

   (5)  The Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority.

   (6)  The Consumer Advocate.

   (7)  The Chairpersons and Minority Chairpersons of the Local Government Committees and the Environmental Resources and Energy Committees of both the Senate of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

   (8)  A representative of the Pennsylvania Rural Water Association.

   (9)  A representative of the water supply industry, who will be selected by the Governor from recommendations provided by the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Water Works Association and the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Association of Water Companies—Pennsylvania Chapter.

   (10)  A representative of the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association.

   (11)  A municipal representative with experience in municipal governance, as well as water and sewer facility management, selected by the Governor.

   (12)  A public representative who will be selected by the Governor from recommendations provided by watershed associations or water quality advocacy nonprofit organizations.

   (13)  A representative selected by the Governor of an accredited college or university in this Commonwealth with a curriculum in civil or environmental engineering with a focus on water infrastructure.

   (14)  A member of the State Board of Landscape Architects selected by the Governor.

   (15)  A representative of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors.

   (16)  A representative of the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs.

   (17)  A representative of the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities.

   (18)  A representative of the County Commissioners’ Association of Pennsylvania.

   (19)  A representative of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Commissioners.

   (20)  The Executive Director of the State Conservation Commission.

   (21)  The Executive Director of the Green Space Alliance.

   (22)  The Chairperson of the Pennsylvania Statewide Water Resources Committee.

 This subchapter takes effect immediately and supersedes Executive Orders 2008-02, dated February 27, 2008 and 2008-02 (as amended) dated April 3, 2008.

Subchapter AA. PENNSYLVANIA HEALTH INFORMATION EXCHANGE (PHIX)

Sec.

 The PHIX Executive Office will be responsible to direct activities necessary to support the development, implementation and operations of the health information technology initiatives within the Governor’s Prescription for Pennsylvania.

   (1)  Executive Director. The PHIX Executive Office shall be managed by an Executive Director who shall report to a Chief Information Officer in the Office of Administration, Office of Information Technology. The PHIX Executive Director, in consultation with the Office of Administration and the Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform, shall determine the appropriate staffing levels and necessary infrastructure to develop and support the operation of the PHIX.

 A PHIX Advisory Council (Council) shall be established to provide input on strategies, issues and recommendations to the PHIX Executive Director. The Council will initially be comprised of a high-level representative from each of the following agencies and entities, designated by the agency or entity head. Representatives from these and other agencies or entities may be added or removed as deemed necessary by the PHIX Executive Director in consultation with the Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform.

   (1)  Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform, who will be the Chairperson of the Council.

   (2)  Department of Health.

   (3)  Department of Public Welfare.

   (4)  Governor’s Policy Office.

   (5)  Governor’s Budget Office.

   (6)  Office of Administration.

   (7)  Department of Community and Economic Development.

   (8)  Pennsylvania Employee’s Benefit Trust Fund.

   (9)  Two members appointed by the Pennsylvania State Senate, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate and one appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

   (10)  Two members appointed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, one appointed by the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and one appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

   (11)  A representative from each of the following entities or organizations, to be recommended by the board of each organization:

     (i)   Blue Cross organizations.

     (ii)   Commercial health care insurer.

     (iii)   The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania.

     (iv)   The Pennsylvania Medical Society.

     (v)   Pennsylvania PhARMA Task Force.

     (vi)   Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association.

     (vii)   Pennsylvania State Nurses Association.

 This subchapter shall remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter BB. PENNSYLVANIA ALL-HAZARD INCIDENT MANAGEMENT TEAM (PA-IMT3)

Sec.

 (a)  There is hereby established the PA-IMT3, an all-hazard incident management team consisting of personnel from different agencies, departments, boards and commissions within the Commonwealth who have trained together to function as a team to manage all-hazard incidents. The PA-IMT3 shall be coordinated by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. PA-IMT3 members shall be approved by the State Fire Commissioner and the Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

 (b)  The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner shall be the lead agencies responsible for implementing this subchapter. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency will provide administrative oversight. The Office of the State Fire Commissioner will coordinate operational issues related to the implementation of this subchapter.

 (c)  Agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction shall:

   (1)  Fully support the PA-IMT3.

   (2)  Cooperate with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner by providing personnel, equipment, and technical assistance and information, as necessary, to carry out the functions and responsibilities of the PA-IMT3.

   (3)  Accommodate their respective PA-IMT3 members’ participation in training, drills, exercises, activations and deployments.

 There is hereby established a PA-IMT3 Interagency Committee which shall be advisory in nature and recommend policy and procedures for the PA-IMT3. The Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the State Fire Commissioner co-chair the PA-IMT3 Interagency Committee. The secretary or head of each of the following agencies or offices shall designate a representative from their agency or office to serve on the PA-IMT3 Interagency Committee:

   (1)  Governor’s Office.

   (2)  Office of the Budget.

   (3)  Pennsylvania State Police.

   (4)  Department of Agriculture.

   (5)  Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

   (6)  Department of Environmental Protection.

   (7)  Department of General Services.

   (8)  Department of Health.

   (9)  Department of Labor and Industry.

   (10)  Department of Public Welfare.

 This subchapter takes effect immediately.

Subchapter CC. PENNSYLVANIA EARLY LEARNING COUNCIL

Sec.

 The Pennsylvania Early Learning Council (Council) will have the following powers and duties, consistent with Federal law:

   (1)  Conducting periodic needs assessments concerning the quality and availability of early childhood learning and development programs and services for children from birth to school entry.

   (2)  Identifying opportunities for, and barriers to, collaboration and coordination among Federally-funded and Commonwealth-funded child learning, development, and education services, and early childhood programs and services.

   (3)  Developing recommendations for increasing the overall participation of children in existing Federal, Commonwealth and local child care and early childhood learning, education and development programs.

   (4)  Developing recommendations regarding the establishment of a unified data collection system for public early childhood learning, education, and development programs and services throughout this Commonwealth.

   (5)  Developing recommendations regarding Commonwealth-wide professional development and career advancement plans for early childhood educators.

   (6)  Assessing the capacity and effectiveness of 2-year and 4-year public and private institutions of higher education in this Commonwealth toward supporting the development of early childhood educators.

   (7)  Making recommendations for improvements in Commonwealth early learning standards.

   (8)  Developing and recommending updates to a multiyear plan for the expansion of effective early learning, education and development services.

   (9)  Recommending policies and procedures that assure the integration of the early intervention system as part of the Commonwealth’s approach to early childhood learning, education and development.

   (10)  Assuring the development of a sound continuum from and between early childhood programs and traditional public education, starting with kindergarten.

   (11)  Ensuring the development of early childhood programs that identify and meet the needs of infants and toddlers and their families.

   (12)  Assuring an integrated approach to the design and delivery of early childhood mental health services across this Commonwealth.

   (13)  Providing ongoing input and advice to the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) about programs under its jurisdiction, including without limitation the development of Early Intervention, Full-Day Kindergarten, Keystone STARS, Nurse-Family Partnership, PA Pre-K Counts and the Child Care Works Subsidized Child Care Program.

   (14)  Engaging parents to provide input and make recommendations to strengthen the work of OCDEL, and develop improved communication strategies with families across this Commonwealth regarding the importance of and their role in quality early learning, education, and child development, and the programs of the Commonwealth in support of quality early learning.

   (15)  Providing input to assure an adequate supply of, and quality for, the early childhood workforce needed to implement OCDEL’s programs.

   (16)  Advising OCDEL in the creation of a comprehensive professional development system that applies to practitioners in all early learning settings, with the goal of increasing the number of highly qualified early childhood professionals.

   (17)  Providing ongoing input to the development of the Early Learning Network (Network), focusing on discussion of technical as well as communication and outreach needs, to support the sound development of the Network across OCDEL programs.

   (18)  Ensuring that children with special needs are properly supported by the State’s early learning programs.

   (19)  Considering the overall early learning needs of young children, and evaluating how those needs are or are not met by OCDEL’s services.

 The Pennsylvania Early Learning Council (Council) will consist of the following members appointed by the Governor, who collectively will be diverse and representative of this Commonwealth’s population:

   (1)  Deputy Secretary for the Office of Child Development and Early Learning.

   (2)  A representative of local educational agencies.

   (3)  A representative of institutions of higher education in this Commonwealth.

   (4)  A representative of local providers of early childhood education and development services.

   (5)  A representative from Head Start agencies located in this Commonwealth, including migrant and seasonal Head Start Programs and Indian Head Start Programs.

   (6)  The Commonwealth Director of Head Start collaboration.

   (7)  A representative of the Commonwealth agency responsible for health or mental health care.

   (8)  A Co-Chairperson of the Early Learning Investment Commission, or the Co-Chairperson’s designee.

   (9)  The Chairperson of the Commonwealth’s State Interagency Coordinating Council.

   (10)  The Director of the Pennsylvania Key.

   (11)  The Director of Early Intervention Technical Assistance.

   (12)  Individuals representing families.

   (13)  Individuals representing advocacy organizations.

   (14)  Individuals representing business and industry.

   (15)  Individuals representing intermediate units.

   (16)  Individuals representing local governments.

   (17)  Individuals representing public school community.

   (18)  Individuals representing research institutions.

   (19)  Individuals representing State corrections or law enforcement.

   (20)  Individuals representing the child care community.

   (21)  Individuals representing the child welfare community.

   (22)  Individuals representing the children’s health community.

   (23)  Individuals representing the early childhood mental health community.

   (24)  Individuals representing media.

   (25)  Individuals representing the philanthropic community.

   (26)  Individuals representing the professional development community that services early learning programs and practitioners.

   (27)  Individuals representing the United Way.

 (a)  The Deputy Secretary for the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) shall serve as Co-Chairperson of the Pennsylvania Early Learning Council (Council). In addition, the Governor will appoint a member to serve as Co-Chairperson of the Council, who serves at the pleasure of the Governor.

 (b)  Council members appointed by the Governor and not serving by virtue of their official position with the Commonwealth will serve for a term of 3 years and continue to serve until their successor is appointed.

 Pennsylvania Early Learning Council (Council) operations will include the following:

   (1)  The Council will hold public hearings and provide opportunities for public comment.

   (2)  The Council will meet at least twice a year.

   (3)  The Council will submit an annual report of its activities to the Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, within 30 days of the close of each fiscal year. The report will make reference to the Council’s activities in furtherance of the specific powers and duties assigned to it by this subchapter.

   (4)  The Council will invite the Governor and members of the Legislature to at least one briefing in each fiscal year, where legislators will have the opportunity to ask questions of the Council’s leadership about its recommendations and activities.

 This subchapter will remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter DD. EARLY LEARNING INVESTMENT COMMISSION

Sec.

 The Early Learning Investment Commission will meet at least twice a year and will have the following powers and duties:

   (1)  Recommending strategies for the Commonwealth to engage business and civic leaders and organizations in early learning planning and advocacy at the State and local level.

   (2)  Increasing business, civic and public awareness of the importance of early childhood education.

   (3)  Planning, implementing and hosting an Annual Economic Summit on Early Childhood Investment. The Annual Economic Summit will include outreach to business, civic, educational and governmental leaders.

   (4)  Planning and implementing an annual meeting for legislators and legislative staff to understand the economic, educational and social impact of investing in quality early childhood education.

 (a)  The Early Learning Investment Commission will consist of the following members, who collectively will be diverse and representative of this Commonwealth’s population:

   (1)  Secretary of the Budget.

   (2)  Secretary of Planning and Policy.

   (3)  Secretary of Community and Economic Development.

   (4)  Secretary of Education

   (5)  Secretary of Public Welfare.

   (6)  Deputy Secretary of the Office of Child Development and Early Learning.

   (7)  Business leaders and business executives from this Commonwealth appointed by the Governor.

   (8)  The Chairperson and Co-Chairperson of the Early Learning Council (Council).

   (9)  The Director of the Pennsylvania Key.

 This subchapter will remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the Governor.

Subchapter EE. GOVERNOR’S FOOD SAFETY COUNCIL

Sec.

 The Governor’s Food Safety Council shall do the following:

   (1)  Advise the Governor on the development and implementation of food safety and defense protocols and practices in the Commonwealth.

   (2)  Provide guidance on prevention, protection, response and recovery to food-related threats.

 The Govenor’s Food Safety Council (Council) shall do the following:

   (1)  Provide guidance and recommendations on the implementation of the Strategy for Agriculture and Food Excellence (S.A.F.E.) Initiative and the protocols and recommendations contained therein.

   (2)  Provide guidance on the continued growth/enhancement/expansion of the S.A.F.E. Initiative as science, technology and threats change on the Federal, State and local level.

   (3)  Facilitate coordination among the public and private entities that play a role in food safety and defense at the Federal, State and local levels.

   (4)  Monitor and evaluate food safety laws and regulations to assess their impact on this Commonwealth.

   (5)  Convene two times per year and at the call of the Chairperson of the Council. A simple majority of the members shall constitute a quorum.

 The Governor’s Food Safety Council (Council) shall consist of the following members:

   (1)  The following agency heads of the Commonwealth, or their designees who serve in positions related to the safety and security of the food supply:

     (i)   Secretary of Agriculture, who will serve as Co-Chairperson of the Council.

     (ii)   Secretary of Health, who will serve as Co-Chairperson of the Council.

     (iii)   Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

     (iv)   Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.

   (2)  The Majority and Minority Chairpersons of the Senate of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committees.

   (3)  Additional members of the public representing the agriculture and food production sectors as well as the public health and emergency management communities. The members of the public will be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. A member of the public appointed to the Council under this subsection may have a designee act on the member’s behalf, if the member first provides the Chairperson a copy of the member’s written designation authorizing the designee to so act. These members will include:

     (i)   Two members representing Local/Act 315 Health Departments.

     (ii)   Three academic members, one of whom shall represent the Agricultural Law Resource and Reference Center.

     (iii)   Two retail sector members, represented by the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association and the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association.

     (iv)   Two processing sector members.

     (v)   Three agricultural producers representing animal, vegetable and fruit production.

     (vi)   Two members representing general agricultural organizations in this Commonwealth.

     (vii)   Two members representing the ports and transportation sector in this Commonwealth, one of whom shall serve as the liaison to the Port of Philadelphia.

     (viii)   Four members of Federal enforcement agencies representing the Federal Bureau of Investigation; United States Department of Agriculture; Center for Disease Control; and the Food and Drug Administration.

     (ix)   One member representing the local regional task forces in this Commonwealth.

 This subchapter shall remain in effect unless revised or rescinded by the