Local Agencies To Be Reimbursed For Disaster Costs 

Release Date: November 20, 2003
Release Number: 1498-31

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PASADENA, Calif. -- More state and federal disaster assistance is on its way to help local agencies begin their recovery from the Southern California wildfires.

Under the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Public Assistance Program, state and local governments, Native American tribes, and certain private non-profit organizations in the disaster-designated counties may be eligible for assistance in paying for costs incurred in the disaster.

The Governor's Office of Emergency Services administers the Public Assistance program. FEMA pays at least 75 percent of the program costs, and non-federal costs are usually divided among state and local governments.

At a series of briefings, the procedures for requesting and receiving assistance were explained to state and local government officials, Native American tribes, and eligible private non-profit agencies.

The Public Assistance program funds essential government costs. The categories of expenses eligible for assistance can include debris removal; immediate protective measures, including overtime pay for emergency workers; repair of roads and bridges; repair of water control facilities; repair of public buildings and equipment; repair of public utilities; and repair of recreational facilities such as parks.

The Governor's Office of Emergency Services coordinates overall state agency response to major disasters in support of local government. The office is responsible for ensuring California’s readiness to respond to and recover from natural, manmade, and war-caused emergencies, and for assisting local governments in their emergency preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery efforts.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Friday, 21-Nov-2003 10:44:28