Statewide Communication Interoperability Plans

The Statewide Communication Interoperability Plans (SCIPs) are locally-driven, multi-jurisdictional, and multi-disciplinary statewide plans to enhance emergency communications.  Each SCIP addresses designated critical elements for statewide interoperability. 

A SCIP should define a strategic vision and set of goals and objectives to improve interoperable communications statewide. It should be a living document, updated as frequently as needed or at least annually, that provides strategic direction and alignment for those responsible for interoperable communications at the local, regional, and state level.

The Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) provided technical assistance, outreach, and guidance to states and territories in the development of their SCIPs.  OEC facilitated 35 SCIP development workshops and conducted 15 document reviews.  These supported SCIP development in 48 of the 56 states and territories.

More than 100 peer reviewers provided feedback on the SCIPs.  The approval of the SCIPs allows the states and territories to receive Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) Grant Program and Homeland Security Grant Program funds.  OEC, in conjunction with its partners at Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, also facilitated a two-part peer review process.  This included individual peer reviews and peer panel discussions to evaluate the SCIPs as well as the PSIC Investment Justifications. 

As of April 2008, all 56 states and territories have a Department of Homeland Security approved SCIP.  OEC is supporting SCIP implementation by: 

• Writing SCIP Implementation Reports
• Issuing the National Summary of SCIPs 
• Conducting follow-on SCIP Implementation Workshops
• Providing technical assistance 

.More statewide planning resources.