§ 7303 — Debris and wreckage removal

(a) Authority of Governor.--Whenever the Governor has declared a disaster emergency to exist under this part, or the President, at the request of the Governor, has declared a major disaster or emergency to exist in this Commonwealth, the Governor is authorized:

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, through the use of Commonwealth agencies or instrumentalities, to clear or remove from publicly or privately owned land or water, debris and wreckage which may threaten public health or safety, or public or private property.

(2) To accept funds from the Federal Government and utilize the funds to make grants or to reimburse any political subdivision for the purpose of removing debris or wreckage from publicly or privately owned land or water.

(b) Authority of Commonwealth personnel.--Whenever the Governor provides for clearance of debris or wreckage pursuant to subsection (a), employees of the designated Commonwealth agencies or individuals appointed by the Commonwealth are authorized to enter upon private land or waters and perform any tasks necessary to the removal or clearance operation.

(c) Nonliability of Commonwealth personnel.--Except in cases of willful misconduct, gross negligence or bad faith, any Commonwealth employee or agent complying with and performing duties pursuant to orders of the Governor under this section shall not be liable for death of or injury to persons or damage to property.

Legislative History

Cross References.Section 7303 is referred to in section 7306 of this title.