The Mutual Aid Agreement for Tribes and Local Health Jurisdictions in Washington State was developed by Tribes and Local Health Departments (LHJs), through a process facilitated by the American Indian Health Commission for Washington State (AIHC) in 2017.  Over 23 attorneys representing Tribes and LHJs, and 86 operational staff (Emergency Managers, Health Directors, Health Officers, Elected Officials, Emergency Response Coordinators, and others) worked collaboratively in a series of 12 meetings held in 2017.

The Agreement is designed to allow for any Tribe or LHJ to sign onto the Agreement at any time.  We strongly recommend all Tribes and LHJs in Washington to become signatories, as the Agreement addresses key legal issues that can delay or complicate mutual aid efforts during an emergency response.  Additionally, the Agreement does not commit any jurisdiction to provide or request assistance at any time.  The decision to ask for assistance or provide assistance is always at the discretion of each jurisdiction on a case-by-case basis.

Mutual Aid Agreement for Tribes and Local Health Jurisdictions in Washington State

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