FEMA Begins Expedited Reimbursement Of Emergency Costs Incurred By Local Governments
Funding Will Cover Eligible Debris Removal and Emergency Protective Measures Expenses
Release Date: February 18, 2005
Release Number: HQ-05-040
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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U. S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that it will begin providing Florida counties interim funding for eligible debris removal costs and emergency protective measures incurred in the immediate response to Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne. The announcement means counties will be able to receive up to 50% of eligible emergency work estimates in advance of each individual reimbursement request being processed by the state and FEMA.
The funding is available for emergency work performed within the first 120 days after the disaster declaration only and typically includes such activities as debris removal, emergency protective measures, and removal of safety and threat hazards. The funding may be used to cover such costs as overtime payroll, equipment costs, material purchases, and contracts when these costs are incurred for emergency work.
FEMA and Florida Emergency Management officials will immediately begin working with counties to determine cost estimates of eligible work in order to start the advanced reimbursements. The state will receive and distribute the funds to the applicants from FEMA based on these estimates. Florida emergency management officials will determine the actual percentage of funds provided to each applicant for emergency work.
Local governments and certain non-profits who are eligible to apply for public assistance will still need to submit all requests for reimbursement through normal processing procedures, which includes a review by both the state and FEMA. Funds advanced through expedited funding will be offset against actual approved emergency work projects.
To date, approved disaster aid for Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne has surpassed $4.15 billion. Of that assistance, approximately $450 million in public assistance funds has been approved.
FEMA pays 100% of the costs of debris removal during the first 72 hours following a hurricane. For debris removal after that period, FEMA pays 90% of the costs. The remaining 10 % comes from state and local funds. The actual removal, storage and disposal of debris are performed by local governments, or by private contractors selected by the local governmental entities. FEMA disaster assistance is regulated by the Stafford Act.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Apr-2005 15:57:12