What is the primary role of the finance section in the ICS?

The primary role of the finance section in the Incident Command System (ICS) is to oversee legal and financial issues. This includes managing all financial aspects related to the incident, such as tracking costs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and processing payments for resources and services. In complex incidents, the finance section is crucial for maintaining an accurate accounting of expenditures and funding sources, facilitating effective resource management throughout the response.

The finance section's responsibilities often extend to reimbursement processes, financial reporting, and managing contracts for services and equipment. By maintaining thorough documentation and financial oversight, this section helps ensure that the incident management team can effectively allocate resources and plan for future financial needs without jeopardizing the safety and effectiveness of operations.