FEMA Extends Deadline for Public Assistance Requests to Sept. 12 

Release Date: August 25, 2008
Release Number: 1763-173

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DES MOINES, Iowa -- Responding to a request from Gov. Chet Culver, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has agreed to extend the deadline for requests for public assistance to Sept. 12.

The public assistance program helps local government and other eligible entities pay disaster-related costs for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and reconstruction of infrastructure including roads, bridges, buildings, utilities and recreation areas. To date, FEMA has obligated more than $80.8 million for these projects. The funds are administered by the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division.

"FEMA wants to assure that all applicants for public assistance have sufficient time to make their requests," said Federal Coordinating Officer Bill Vogel of FEMA. "At the same time, we encourage applicants to get their requests in as soon as possible, since that will expedite the disbursement of program funds to help pay for Iowa's response to and recovery from this disaster."

As the result of flooding, tornadoes and severe storms that struck Iowa from May 25 through August 13, 84 Iowa counties are eligible for the public assistance program.

"The state requested this extension due to the magnitude and duration of this disaster," said Iowa State Coordinating Officer Pat Hall. "The additional time will be helpful to allow eligible entities to assess their needs that may be covered by FEMA's public assistance program."

In addition to local governments, entities eligible for the program include state agencies, Native American tribes and tribal organizations and private non-profit organizations that provide critical community services, such as power facilities, health and safety services, and education.

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Last Modified: Friday, 29-Aug-2008 14:52:40