Executive Order  No. 435: Establishing the Governor's Bioterrorism Coordinating Council

WHEREAS, although Massachusetts, a longstanding leader in medical advancements, has always worked steadily to address the threat of bioterrorism, the attacks on our nation on September 11, 2001 require that we refocus our efforts and use our valuable resources to assist and lead the nation in bioterrorism preparedness;

WHEREAS, its sheer complexity and potentially devastating results demand that the threat of bioterrorism be addressed critically and comprehensively; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of the Commonwealth and our nation will be best served by the recommendation and implementation of well-coordinated strategies to most effectively prepare for and combat the threat of bioterrorism.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jane Swift, Governor of the Commonwealth, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Supreme Executive Magistrate, do hereby order as follows:

Section 1. There is hereby established the Governor's Bioterrorism Coordinating Council (the "Council"). The Council shall review, evaluate and consider current and proposed strategies addressing the threat of bioterrorism and advise and make recommendations to the Governor as to a comprehensive plan of coordinated strategies and methods for implementation that will most effectively prepare the Commonwealth for the threat of terrorism.

Section 2. The Council shall consist of no more than six (6) members appointed by the Governor and each shall be chosen for their expertise and experience in public health, medical research, crisis management or terrorism. The Governor shall appoint one of the members to serve as Chair of the Council. All members shall serve without compensation in an advisory capacity to and at the pleasure of the Governor.

Section 3. The Council may call and rely upon the expertise and services of individuals and entities outside of its membership for research, advice, support or other functions necessary and appropriate to further and accomplish its mission.

Section 4. The Council shall meet at such times and places as determined by the Chair and give such advice that it deems appropriate to the Governor from time to time, provided that it reports its findings and recommendations to the Governor by no later than September 1, 2002.

Given at the Executive Chamber in Boston this 16th day of January in the year two thousand two.

Jane Swift

Governor

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

William Francis Galvin

Secretary of the Commonwealth