Purpose

Statewide Communication Interoperability Plans (SCIPs) are locally-driven, multi-jurisdictional, and multi-disciplinary statewide plans to enhance emergency communications. SCIPs should outline and define the current and future vision for communications interoperability within the State or territory. In addition, SCIPs should align emergency response agencies with the goals, objectives, and initiatives for achieving that vision.

SCIPs are living documents that should be updated on an annual basis, or as frequently as needed. The SCIP provides strategic direction and alignment for those responsible for interoperable communications at the State, regional, and local levels.

SCIP Development

The Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) required each state and territory to develop and submit a SCIP by December 2007. Prior to the submission date, OEC provided technical assistance, outreach, and guidance to states and territories in the development of their SCIPs.

With its partners at the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, OEC facilitated a peer review process to evaluate the SCIPs. Over 100 public sector employees with expertise in emergency operations, interoperable communications, and grants management, participated in the process. As of April 2008, all 56 states and territories have a Department-approved SCIP.

SCIP Workshops and Additional OEC Support

OEC continues to support states and territories in the implementation of their SCIP by providing annual SCIP Implementation Workshops. During the workshops, state and local representatives gather to discuss communications gaps and ways to implement SCIP initiatives. The SCIP Implementation Workshops are participatory and hands-on, and focus on the specific needs and priorities of each state and territory. In 2012, 38 workshops were conducted.

OEC has also supported SCIP implementation by:

• Issuing the National Summary of SCIPs
• Providing technical assistance
• Hosting bi-annual Statewide Interoperability Coordinator meetings