The director shall have general direction and control of the division of homeland security and emergency management, and shall be responsible for the carrying out of the provisions of this subdivision. In the event of disaster beyond local control, the governor may assume direct operational control over all or any part of the emergency management functions within the state. In performing the director's duties under this subdivision and to effect its policy and purposes, the director is authorized to cooperate with the federal government, with other states, and with private agencies in all matters pertaining to the emergency management of this state and of the nation, and is further authorized and empowered:
   I. To prepare a comprehensive plan and program for the emergency management of this state, such plan and program to be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency management plans of the federal government and of other states to the greatest possible extent, and to coordinate the preparation of plans and programs for emergency management by the political subdivisions of this state and private agencies, such plans to be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency management plan and program of this state to the greatest possible extent.
   II. In accordance with such plan and program for the emergency management of this state, to procure supplies and equipment, to institute training programs and public information programs, and to take other necessary preparatory steps to insure the furnishing of adequately trained and equipped forces of emergency management personnel in time of need.
   III. To make such studies and surveys of industries, transportation, communication, housing and medical facilities, and resources, including but not limited to food, petroleum, and housing, and other facilities in the state as may be necessary to ascertain the capabilities of the state for emergency management, and to plan for their most efficient emergency use.
   IV. On behalf of the state and subject to the approval of the governor, to coordinate mutual aid plans between or among political subdivisions of the state.
   V. [Repealed.]
   VI. To prepare a comprehensive plan and program for the evacuation of hearing ear dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and other service animals, as defined in RSA 167-D.
Source. 2002, 257:7, eff. July 1, 2002. 2003, 319:108, 131, III, eff. Sept. 4, 2003. 2004, 171:5, eff. July 24, 2004. 2006, 230:1, eff. July 31, 2006. 2008, 361:15, eff. July 11, 2008.