Governor Kelly Directs State Agencies to Update Continuity of Operations Plans

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that she has signed Executive Order 23-03, directing all executive branch state agencies to update their Continuity of Operations Plans (COOP). Having updated plans is vital in the event of natural or other emergencies that impact state agencies or degrade their ability to deliver services. 

“These plans are essential to our preparedness for emergencies, so Kansans have peace of mind and confidence in our continuity of government,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These plans serve as a guide for our agencies to coordinate and manage their essential functions and services during disruptions of normal operations.” 

Agency COOPs will address essential functions, critical facilities, order of succession, delegation of authority, communications, testing, training, and exercises, among other topics. State agencies are also directed to update COOP annually and provide those updates to the Kansas Division of Emergency Management. 

In her order, Governor Kelly encouraged other statewide elected officials, independent boards and commissions, the Regents Universities, and the Judicial and Legislative Branches to implement Continuity of Operations planning and to be part of state continuity preparedness discussions. 

Executive Order 23-03 provides a deadline of December 31, 2023, for agencies to update their COOP. 

A copy of Executive Order 23-03 can be found here.