A Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) exists to be a forum for emergency management agencies, first responders, industry and the public to work together to evaluate, understand, train about, coordinate and communicate chemical hazardous materials emergency plans.

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Under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) must develop an emergency response plan, review the plan at least annually, and provide information about chemicals in the community to citizens.

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The role of the Henry County, MO LEPC is to form a partnership with local governments and industries as a resource for enhancing hazardous materials preparedness.  Local governments are responsible for the integration of hazmat planning and response within their jurisdiction.  This includes ensuring the local hazard analysis adequately addresses hazmat incidents; incorporating planning for hazmat incidents into the local emergency plan and annexes; assessing capabilities and developing hazmat response capability using local resources, mutual aid and contractors; training responders; and exercising the plan.