EXECUTIVE ORDER 11-05

WHEREAS, the safety and health of every Kansan is of paramount importance; and

WHEREAS, it is clear that Kansas must remain vigilant and focused in addressing the threat that terrorism poses to the safety and health of our citizens and visitors; and

WHEREAS, as the state’s chief executive and commander-in-chief, it is the Governor’s responsibility to protect the citizens of Kansas from threats and acts of terrorism and to promote initiatives to increase the homeland security of the State of Kansas; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to take appropriate measures to detect, prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism or threats of terrorism to the person or property of the citizens of the State of Kansas and to maintain peace, tranquility, and good order in the State; and

WHEREAS, it is critical that the Governor be continuously apprised of homeland security related issues, consult regularly in a coordinated fashion with public safety and health officials and other private entities, and be provided the most accurate and reliable information and advice available to ensure that all relevant factors are appropriately weighed in the development and implementation of effective and coordinated homeland security measures; and

WHEREAS, the State of Kansas should continue to coordinate and communicate with the United States Department of Homeland Security in the development, coordination, and implementation of comprehensive policies, programs, and initiatives designed to secure the United States and the State of Kansas from terrorist threats and attacks.

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Kansas, I hereby appoint The Adjutant General of Kansas as the Homeland Security Advisor of the State of Kansas. 

The Homeland Security Advisor will provide direct counsel and advice to the Governor on all matters related to homeland security and serve as the Governor’s personal representative, agent, and liaison to the United States Department of Homeland Security and all other governmental and private entities in Kansas involved in homeland security issues.  The Homeland Security Advisor is responsible for all homeland security matters within the State of Kansas and shall serve as Director of the Kansas Office of Homeland Security.  The Kansas Office of Homeland Security, under the supervision of the Homeland Security Advisor, is hereby appointed the State Administrative Agency for the administration of homeland security grants and funds.

As Homeland Security Advisor and Director of the Kansas Office of Homeland Security, the Adjutant General is specifically charged with ensuring the most efficient and cost effective use of all public and private resources in the execution of these duties.