Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today signed Emergency Executive Order 10-16 providing for assistance with search and rescue effort for stranded motorists.

The following is the text of the Governor’s order:

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 10-16

PROVIDING FOR ASSISTANCE WITH SEARCH AND RESCUE EFFORTS FOR STRANDED MOTORISTS

I, TIM PAWLENTY, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and applicable laws, do hereby issue this executive order:

WHEREAS, on Saturday, December 11, 2010, a winter storm resulted in blowing and drifting snow across most of central and southern Minnesota, which necessitated road closures and threatened public safety in the county of Rock; and

WHEREAS, dangerous driving conditions resulted in multiple stranded vehicles and these conditions created an imminent danger to persons and property, presenting an immediate need to activate emergency resources to assist with the search and rescue of stranded motorists; and

WHEREAS, the resources of the affected local and county governments were inadequate to meet the demands generated by the winter conditions; and

WHEREAS, the Rock County Sheriff requested activation of the National Guard to support recovery of stranded motorists.

NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby order that:

1. The Adjutant General of Minnesota order to state active duty on or about December 11, 2010, in the service of the State, such personnel and equipment of the military forces of the State as required to provide assistance in responding to the emergency and in preparing emergency relief services.

2. The Adjutant General is authorized to purchase, lease or contract goods and services necessary to accomplish the mission.

3. The cost of subsistence, transportation, fuel, pay and allowances of said individuals shall be defrayed from the general fund of the State, as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 2010, Sections 192.49, 192.52 and 192.54.

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2010, Section 4.035, Subdivision 2, this emergency executive order shall be effective retroactive to December 11, 2010, and will remain in effect until the conclusion of the emergency.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have set my hand this 13th day of December, 2010.