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National
United States Regulations
44 CFR PART 206—FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR DISASTERS DECLARED ON OR AFTER NOVEMBER 23, 1988

Title 44: Emergency Management and Assistance





PART 206—FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR DISASTERS DECLARED ON OR AFTER NOVEMBER 23, 1988



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Authority: Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121–5206; Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1978, 43 FR 41943, 3 CFR, 1978 Comp., p. 329; E.O. 12127, 44 FR 19367, 3 CFR, 1979 Comp., p. 376; E.O. 12148, 44 FR 43239, 3 CFR, 1979 Comp., p. 412; and E.O. 12673, 54 FR 12571, 3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 214.

Source: 54 FR 11615, Mar. 21, 1989, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General
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Source: 55 FR 2288, Jan. 23, 1990, unless otherwise noted.

§ 206.1 Purpose.
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(a) Purpose. The purpose of this subpart is to prescribe the policies and procedures to be followed in implementing those sections of Public Law 93–288, as amended, delegated to the Director, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The rules in this subpart apply to major disasters and emergencies declared by the President on or after November 23, 1988, the date of enactment of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.

(b) Prior regulations. Prior regulations relating to major disasters and emergencies declared by the President before November 23, 1988 were published in 44 CFR part 205 (see 44 CFR part 205 as contained in the CFR edition revised as of October 1, 1994).

[59 FR 53363, Oct. 24, 1994]

§ 206.2 Definitions.
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(a) General. The following definitions have general applicability throughout this part:

(1) The Stafford Act: The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Public Law 93–288, as amended.

(2) Applicant: Individuals, families, States and local governments, or private nonprofit organizations who apply for assistance as a result of a declaration of a major disaster or emergency.

(3) Associate Director or Executive Associate Director: (i) Unless otherwise specified in subparts A through K of this part, the Associate Director or Assistant Director of the Readiness, Response and Recovery Directorate, or his/her designated representative.

(ii) Unless otherwise specified in subparts M and N of this part, the Associate Director or Executive Associate Director of the Mitigation Directorate, or his/her designated representative.

(4) Concurrent, multiple major disasters: In considering a request for an advance, the term concurrent multiple major disasters means major disasters which occur within a 12-month period immediately preceding the major disaster for which an advance of the non-Federal share is requested pursuant to section 319 of the Stafford Act.

(5) Contractor: Any individual, partnership, corporation, agency, or other entity (other than an organization engaged in the business of insurance) performing work by contract for the Federal Government or a State or local agency.

(6) Designated area: Any emergency or major disaster-affected portion of a State which has been determined eligible for Federal assistance.

(7) Director: The Director, FEMA.

(8) Disaster Recovery Manager (DRM): The person appointed to exercise the authority of a Regional Director for a particular emergency or major disaster.

(9) Emergency: Any occasion or instance for which, in the determination of the President, Federal assistance is needed to supplement State and local efforts and capabilities to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in any part of the United States.

(10) Federal agency: Any department, independent establishment, Government corporation, or other agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, including the United States Postal Service, but shall not include the American National Red Cross.

(11) Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO): The person appointed by the Director, or in his absence, the Deputy Director, or alternatively the Associate Director, to coordinate Federal assistance in an emergency or a major disaster.

(12) Governor: The chief executive of any State or the Acting Governor.

(13) Governor's Authorized Representative (GAR): The person empowered by the Governor to execute, on behalf of the State, all necessary documents for disaster assistance.

(14) Hazard mitigation: Any cost effective measure which will reduce the potential for damage to a facility from a disaster event.

(15) Individual assistance: Supplementary Federal assistance provided under the Stafford Act to individuals and families adversely affected by a major disaster or an emergency. Such assistance may be provided directly by the Federal Government or through State or local governments or disaster relief organizations. For further information, see subparts D, E, and F of these regulations.

(16) Local government:

(i) A county, municipality, city, town, township, local public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of governments (regardless of whether the council of governments is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), regional or interstate government entity, or agency or instrumentality of a local government;

(ii) An Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or Alaska Native village or organization; and

(iii) A rural community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity, for which an application for assistance is made by a State or political subdivision of a State.

(17) Major disaster: Any natural catastrophe (including any hurricane, tornado, storm, high water, winddriven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, or drought), or, regardless of cause, any fire, flood, or explosion, in any part of the United States, which in the determination of the President causes damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant major disaster assistance under this Act to supplement the efforts and available resources of States, local governments, and disaster relief organizations in alleviating the damage, loss, hardship, or suffering caused thereby.

(18) Mission assignment: Work order issued to a Federal agency by the Regional Director, Associate Director, or Director, directing completion by that agency of a specified task and citing funding, other managerial controls, and guidance.

(19) Private nonprofit organization: Any nongovernmental agency or entity that currently has:

(i) An effective ruling letter from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service granting tax exemption under section 501 (c), (d), or (e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954; or

(ii) Satisfactory evidence from the State that the organization or entity is a nonprofit one organized or doing business under State law.

(20) Public Assistance: Supplementary Federal assistance provided under the Stafford Act to State and local governments or certain private, nonprofit organizations other than assistance for the direct benefit of individuals and families. For further information, see subparts G and H of this part. Fire Management Assistance Grants under section 420 of the Stafford Act are also considered Public Assistance. See subpart K of this part and part 204 of this chapter.

(21) Regional Director: A director of a regional office of FEMA, or his/her designated representative. As used in these regulations, Regional Director also means the Disaster Recovery Manager who has been appointed to exercise the authority of the Regional Director for a particular emergency or major disaster.

(22) State: Any State of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(23) State Coordinating Officer (SCO): The person appointed by the Governor to act in cooperation with the Federal Coordinating Officer to administer disaster recovery efforts.

(24) State emergency plan: As used in section 401 or section 501 of the Stafford Act means that State plan which is designated specifically for State-level response to emergencies or major disasters and which sets forth actions to be taken by the State and local governments, including those for implementing Federal disaster assistance.

(25) Temporary housing: Temporary accommodations provided by the Federal Government to individuals or families whose homes are made unlivable by an emergency or a major disaster.

(26) United States: The 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(27) Voluntary organization: Any chartered or otherwise duly recognized tax-exempt local, State, or national organization or group which has provided or may provide needed services to the States, local governments, or individuals in coping with an emergency or a major disaster.

(b) Additional definitions. Definitions which apply to individual subparts are found in those subparts.

[54 FR 11615, Mar. 21, 1989, as amended at 63 FR 17110, Apr. 8, 1998; 66 FR 57352, 57353, Nov. 14, 2001; 69 FR 24083, May 3, 2004]

§ 206.3 Policy.
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It is the policy of FEMA to provide an orderly and continuing means of assistance by the Federal Government to State and local governments in carrying out their responsibilities to alleviate the suffering and damage that result from major disasters and emergencies by:

(a) Providing Federal assistance programs for public and private losses and needs sustained in disasters;

(b) Encouraging the development of comprehensive disaster preparedness and assistance plans, programs, capabilities, and organizations by the States and local governments;

(c) Achieving greater coordination and responsiveness of disaster preparedness and relief programs;

(d) Encouraging individuals, States, and local governments to obtain insurance coverage and thereby reduce their dependence on governmental assistance; and

(e) Encouraging hazard mitigation measures, such as development of land-use and construction regulations, floodplain management, protection of wetlands, and environmental planning, to reduce losses from disasters.

§ 206.4 State emergency plans.
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The State shall set forth in its emergency plan all responsibilities and actions specified in the Stafford Act and these regulations that are required of the State and its political subdivisions to prepare for and respond to major disasters and emergencies and to facilitate the delivery of Federal disaster assistance. Although not mandatory, prior to the adoption of the final plan, the State is encouraged to circulate the plan to local governments for review and comment.

[55 FR 2288, Jan. 23, 1990, 55 FR 5458, Feb. 15, 1990]

§ 206.5 Assistance by other Federal agencies.
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(a) In any declared major disaster, the Associate Director or the Regional Director may direct any Federal agency to utilize its authorities and the resources granted to it under Federal law (including personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, and managerial, technical, and advisory services) to support State and local assistance efforts.

(b) In any declared emergency, the Associate Director or the Regional Director may direct any Federal agency to utilize its authorities and the resources granted to it under Federal law (including personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, and managerial, technical, and advisory services) to support emergency efforts by State and local governments to save lives; protect property, public health and safety; and lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.

(c) In any declared major disaster or emergency, the Associate Director or the Regional Director may direct any Federal agency to provide emergency assistance necessary to save lives and to protect property, public health, and safety by:

(1) Utilizing, lending, or donating to State and local governments Federal equipment, supplies, facilities, personnel, and other resources, other than the extension of credit, for use or distribution by such governments in accordance with the purposes of this Act;

(2) Distributing medicine, food, and other consumable supplies; or

(3) Performing work or services to provide emergency assistance authorized in the Stafford Act.

(d) Disaster assistance by other Federal agencies is subject to the coordination of the FCO. Federal agencies shall provide any reports or information about disaster assistance rendered under the provisions of these regulations or authorities independent of the Stafford Act, that the FCO or Regional Director considers necessary and requests from the agencies.

(e) Assistance furnished by any Federal agency under paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) of this section is subject to the criteria provided by the Associate Director under these regulations.

(f) Assistance under paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) of this section, when directed by the Associate Director or Regional Director, does not apply to nor shall it affect the authority of any Federal agency to provide disaster assistance independent of the Stafford Act.

(g) In carrying out the purposes of the Stafford Act, any Federal agency may accept and utilize, with the consent of the State or local government, the services, personnel, materials, and facilities of any State or local government, agency, office, or employee. Such utilization shall not make such services, materials, or facilities Federal in nature nor make the State or local government or agency an arm or agent of the Federal Government.

(h) Any Federal agency charged with the administration of a Federal assistance program may, if so requested by the applicant State or local authorities, modify or waive, for a major disaster, such administrative conditions for assistance as would otherwise prevent the giving of assistance under such programs if the inability to meet such conditions is a result of the major disaster.

§ 206.6 Donation or loan of Federal equipment and supplies.
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(a) In any major disaster or emergency, the Associate Director or the Regional Director may direct Federal agencies to donate or loan their equipment and supplies to State and local governments for use and distribution by them for the purposes of the Stafford Act.

(b) A donation or loan may include equipment and supplies determined under applicable laws and regulations to be surplus to the needs and responsibilities of the Federal Government. The State shall certify that the surplus property is usable and necessary for current disaster purposes in order to receive a donation or loan. Such a donation or loan is made in accordance with procedures prescribed by the General Services Administration.

§ 206.7 Implementation of assistance from other Federal agencies.
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All directives, known as mission assignments, to other Federal agencies shall be in writing, or shall be confirmed in writing if made orally, and shall identify the specific task to be performed and the requirements or criteria to be followed. If the Federal agency is to be reimbursed, the letter will also contain a dollar amount which is not to be exceeded in accomplishing the task without prior approval of the issuing official.

§ 206.8 Reimbursement of other Federal agencies.
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(a) Assistance furnished under §206.5 (a) or (b) of this subpart may be provided with or without compensation as considered appropriate by the Associate Director or Regional Director.

(b) The Associate Director or the Regional Director may not approve reimbursement of costs incurred while performing work pursuant to disaster assistance authorities independent of the Stafford Act.

(c) Expenditures eligible for reimbursement. The Associate Director or the Regional Director may approve reimbursement of the following costs which are incurred in providing requested assistance.

(1) Overtime, travel, and per diem of permanent Federal agency personnel.

(2) Wages, travel, and per diem of temporary Federal agency personnel assigned solely to performance of services directed by the Associate Director or the Regional Director in the major disaster or emergency area designated by the Regional Director.

(3) Travel and per diem of Federal military personnel assigned solely to the performance of services directed by the Associate Director or the Regional Director in the major disaster or emergency area designated by the Regional Director.

(4) Cost of work, services, and materials procured under contract for the purposes of providing assistance directed by the Associate Director or the Regional Director.

(5) Cost of materials, equipment, and supplies (including transportation, repair, and maintenance) from regular stocks used in providing directed assistance.

(6) All costs incurred which are paid from trust, revolving, or other funds, and whose reimbursement is required by law.

(7) Other costs submitted by an agency with written justification or otherwise agreed to in writing by the Associate Director or the Regional Director and the agency.

(d) Procedures for reimbursement. Federal agencies performing work under a mission assignment will submit requests for reimbursement, as follows:

(1) Federal agencies may submit requests for reimbursement of amounts greater than $1,000 at any time. Requests for lesser amounts may be submitted only quarterly. An agency shall submit a final accounting of expenditures after completion of the agency's work under each directive for assistance. The time limit and method for submission of reimbursement requests will be stipulated in the mission assignment letter.

(2) An agency shall document its request for reimbursement with specific details on personnel services, travel, and all other expenses by object class as specified in OMB Circular A–12 and by any other subobject class used in the agency's accounting system. Where contracts constitute a significant portion of the billings, the agency shall provide a listing of individual contracts and their associated costs.

(3) Reimbursement requests shall cite the specific mission assignment under which the work was performed, and the major disaster or emergency identification number. Requests for reimbursement of costs incurred under more than one mission assignment may not be combined for billing purposes.

(4) Unless otherwise agreed, an agency shall direct all requests for reimbursement to the Regional Director of the region in which the costs were incurred.

(5) A Federal agency requesting reimbursement shall retain all financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and other records pertinent to the provision of services or use of resources by that agency. These materials shall be accessible to duly authorized representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Comptroller General, for the purpose of making audits, excerpts, and transcripts, for a period of 3 years starting from the date of submission of the final billing.

§ 206.9 Nonliability.
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The Federal Government shall not be liable for any claim based upon the exercise or performance of, or the failure to exercise or perform a discretionary function or duty on the part of a Federal agency or an employee of the Federal Government in carrying out the provisions of the Stafford Act.

§ 206.10 Use of local firms and individuals.
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In the expenditure of Federal funds for debris removal, distribution of supplies, reconstruction, and other major disaster or emergency assistance activities which may be carried out by contract or agreement with private organizations, firms, or individuals, preference shall be given, to the extent feasible and practicable, to those organizations, firms, and individuals residing or doing business primarily in the area affected by such major disaster or emergency. This shall not be considered to restrict the use of Department of Defense resources in the provision of major disaster assistance under the Stafford Act.

§ 206.11 Nondiscrimination in disaster assistance.
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(a) Federal financial assistance to the States or their political subdivisions is conditioned on full compliance with 44 CFR part 7, Nondiscrimination in Federally-Assisted Programs.

(b) All personnel carrying out Federal major disaster or emergency assistance functions, including the distribution of supplies, the processing of the applications, and other relief and assistance activities, shall perform their work in an equitable and impartial manner, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, or economic status.

(c) As a condition of participation in the distribution of assistance or supplies under the Stafford Act, or of receiving assistance under the Stafford Act, government bodies and other organizations shall provide a written assurance of their intent to comply with regulations relating to nondiscrimination.

(d) The agency shall make available to employees, applicants, participants, beneficiaries, and other interested parties such information regarding the provisions of this regulation and its applicability to the programs or activities conducted by the agency, and make such information available to them in such manner as the head of the agency finds necessary to apprise such persons of the protections against discrimination assured them by the Act and this regulation.

§ 206.12 Use and coordination of relief organizations.
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(a) In providing relief and assistance under the Stafford Act, the FCO or Regional Director may utilize, with their consent, the personnel and facilities of the American National Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the Mennonite Disaster Service, and other voluntary organizations in the distribution of medicine, food, supplies, or other items, and in the restoration, rehabilitation, or reconstruction of community services and essential facilities, whenever the FCO or Regional Director finds that such utilization is necessary.

(b) The Associate Director is authorized to enter into agreements with the American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, the Mennonite Disaster Service, and other voluntary organizations engaged in providing relief during and after a major disaster or emergency. Any agreement shall include provisions assuring that use of Federal facilities, supplies, and services will be in compliance with §206.11, Nondiscrimination in Disaster Assistance, and §206.191, Duplication of Benefits, of these regulations and such other regulations as the Associate Director may issue. The FCO may coordinate the disaster relief activities of the voluntary organizations which agree to operate under his/her direction.

(c) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to limit or in any way affect the responsibilities of the American National Red Cross as stated in Public Law 58–4.

§ 206.13 Standards and reviews.
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(a) The Associate Director shall establish program standards and assess the efficiency and effectiveness of programs administered under the Stafford Act by conducting annual reviews of the activities of Federal agencies and State and local governments involved in major disaster or emergency response efforts.

(b) In carrying out this provision, the Associate Director or Regional Director may direct Federal agencies to submit reports relating to their disaster assistance activities. The Associate Director or the Regional Director may request similar reports from the States relating to these activities on the part of State and local governments. Additionally, the Associate Director or Regional Director may conduct independent investigations, studies, and evaluations as necessary to complete the reviews.

[55 FR 2288, Jan. 23, 1990; 55 FR 5458, Feb. 15, 1990]

§ 206.14 Criminal and civil penalties.
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(a) Misuse of funds. Any person who knowingly misapplies the proceeds of a loan or other cash benefit obtained under this Act shall be fined an amount equal to one and one-half times the misapplied amount of the proceeds or cash benefit.

(b) Civil enforcement. Whenever it appears that any person has violated or is about to violate any provision of this Act, including any civil penalty imposed under this Act, the Attorney General may bring a civil action for such relief as may be appropriate. Such action may be brought in an appropriate United States district court.

(c) Referral to Attorney General. The Associate Director shall expeditously refer to the Attorney General for appropriate action any evidence developed in the performance of functions under this Act that may warrant consideration for criminal prosecution.

(d) Civil penalty. Any individual who knowingly violates any order or regulation issued under this Act shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for each violation.

§ 206.15 Recovery of assistance.
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(a) Party liable. Any person who intentionally causes a condition for which Federal assistance is provided under this Act or under any other Federal law as a result of a declaration of a major disaster or emergency under this Act shall be liable to the United States for the reasonable costs incurred by the United States in responding to such disaster or emergency to the extent that such costs are attributable to the intentional act or omission of such person which caused such condition. Such action shall be brought in an appropriate United States District Court.

(b) Rendering of care. A person shall not be liable under this section for costs incurred by the United States as a result of actions taken or omitted by such person in the course of rendering care or assistance in response to a major disaster or emergency.

§ 206.16 Audit and investigations.
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(a) Subject to the provisions of chapter 75 of title 31, United States Code, and 44 CFR part 14, relating to requirements for single audits, the Associate Director or Regional Director shall conduct audits and investigations as necessary to assure compliance with the Stafford Act, and in connection therewith may question such persons as may be necessary to carry out such audits and investigations.

(b) For purposes of audits and investigations under this section, FEMA or State auditors, the Governor's Authorized Representative, the Regional Director, the Associate Director, and the Comptroller General of the United States, or their duly authorized representatives, may inspect any books, documents, papers, and records of any person relating to any activity undertaken or funded under the Stafford Act.

§ 206.17 Effective date.
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These regulations are effective for all major disasters or emergencies declared on or after November 23, 1988.

§§ 206.18-206.30 [Reserved]
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Subpart B—The Declaration Process
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Source: 55 FR 2292, Jan. 23, 1990, unless otherwise noted.

§ 206.31 Purpose.
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The purpose of this subpart is to describe the process leading to a Presidential declaration of a major disaster or an emergency and the actions triggered by such a declaration.

§ 206.32 Definitions.
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All definitions in the Stafford Act and in §206.2 apply. In addition, the following definitions apply:

(a) Appeal: A request for reconsideration of a determination on any action related to Federal assistance under the Stafford Act and these regulations. Specific procedures for appeals are contained in the relevant subparts of these regulations.

(b) Commitment: A certification by the Governor that the State and local governments will expend a reasonable amount of funds to alleviate the effects of the major disaster or emergency, for which no Federal reimbursement will be requested.

(c) Disaster Application Center: A center established in a centralized location within the disaster area for individuals, families, or businesses to apply for disaster aid.

(d) FEMA-State Agreement: A formal legal document stating the understandings, commitments, and binding conditions for assistance applicable as the result of the major disaster or emergency declared by the President.

(e) Incident: Any condition which meets the definition of major disaster or emergency as set forth in §206.2 which causes damage or hardship that may result in a Presidential declaration of a major disaster or an emergency.

(f) Incident period: The time interval during which the disaster-causing incident occurs. No Federal assistance under the Act shall be approved unless the damage or hardship to be alleviated resulted from the disaster-causing incident which took place during the incident period or was in anticipation of that incident. The incident period will be established by FEMA in the FEMA-State Agreement and published in the Federal Register.

§ 206.33 Preliminary damage assessment.
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The preliminary damage assessment (PDA) process is a mechanism used to determine the impact and magnitude of damage and the resulting unmet needs of individuals, businesses, the public sector, and the community as a whole. Informtion collected is used by the State as a basis for the Governor's request, and by FEMA to document the recommendation made to the President in response to the Governor's request. It is in the best interest of all parties to combine State and Federal personnel resources by performing a joint PDA prior to the initiation of a Governor's request, as follows.

(a) Preassessment by the State. When an incident occurs, or is imminent, which the State official responsible for disaster operations determines may be beyond the State and local government capabilities to respond, the State will request the Regional Director to perform a joint FEMA-State preliminary damage assessment. It is not anticipated that all occurrences will result in the requirement for assistance; therefore, the State will be expected to verify their initial information, in some manner, before requesting this support.

(b) Damage assessment teams. Damage assessment teams will be composed of at least one representative of the Federal Government and one representative of the State. A local government representative, familiar with the extent and location of damage in his/her community, should also be included, if possible. Other State and Federal agencies, and voluntary relief organizations may also be asked to participate, as needed. It is the State's responsibility to coordinate State and local participation in the PDA and to ensure that the participants receive timely notification concerning the schedule. A FEMA official will brief team members on damage criteria, the kind of information to be collected for the particular incident, and reporting requirements.

(c) Review of findings. At the close of the PDA, FEMA will consult with State officials to discuss findings and reconcile any differences.

(d) Exceptions. The requirement for a joint PDA may be waived for those incidents of unusual severity and magnitude that do not require field damage assessments to determine the need for supplemental Federal assistance under the Act, or in such other instances determined by the Regional Director upon consultation with the State. It may be necessary, however, to conduct an assessment to determine unmet needs for managerial response purposes.

§ 206.34 Request for utilization of Department of Defense (DOD) resources.
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(a) General. During the immediate aftermath of an incident which may ultimately qualify for a Presidential declaration of a major disaster or emergency, when threats to life and property are present which cannot be effectively dealt with by the State or local governments, the Associate Director may direct DOD to utilize DOD personnel and equipment for removal of debris and wreckage and temporary restoration of essential public facilities and services.

(b) Request process. The Governor of a State, or the Acting Governor in his/her absence, may request such DOD assistance. The Governor should submit the request to the Associate Director through the appropriate Regional Director to ensure prompt acknowledgment and processing. The request must be submitted within 48 hours of the occurrence of the incident. Requests made after that time may still be considered if information is submitted indicating why the request for assistance could not be made during the initial 48 hours. The request shall include:

(1) Information describing the types and amount of DOD emergency assistance being requested;

(2) Confirmation that the Governor has taken appropriate action under State law and directed the execution of the State emergency plan;

(3) A finding that the situation is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments and that Federal assistance is necessary for the preservation of life and property;

(4) A certification by the Governor that the State and local government will reimburse FEMA for the non-Federal share of the cost of such work; and

(5) An agreement:

(i) To provide all lands, easements and rights-of-way necessary to accomplish the approved work without cost to the United States;

(ii) To hold and save the United States free from damages due to the requested work, and to indemnify the Federal government against any claims arising from such work; and

(iii) To assist DOD in all support and local jurisdictional matters.

(c) Processing the request. Upon receipt of the request, the Regional Director shall gather adequate information to support a recommendation and forward it to the Associate Director. If the Associate Director determines that such work is essential to save lives and protect property, he/she will issue a mission assignment to DOD authorizing direct Federal assistance to the extent deemed appropriate.

(d) Implementation of assistance. The performance of emergency work may not exceed a period of 10 days from the date of the mission assignment.

(e) Limits. Generally, no work shall be approved under this section which falls within the statutory authority of DOD or another Federal agency. However, where there are significant unmet needs of sufficient severity and magnitude, not addressed by other assistance, which could appropriately be addressed under this section of the Stafford Act, the involvement of other Federal agencies would not preclude the authorization of DOD assistance by the Associate Director.

(f) Federal share. The Federal share of assistance under this section shall be not less than 75 percent of the cost of eligible work.

(g) Project management. DOD shall ensure that the work is completed in accordance with the approved scope of work, costs, and time limitations in the mission assignment. DOD shall also keep the Regional Director and the State advised of work progress and other project developments. It is the responsibility of DOD to ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State and local legal requirements. A final report will be submitted to the Regional Director upon termination of all direct Federal assistance work. Final reports shall be signed by a representative of DOD and the State. Once the final eligible cost is determined, DOD will request reimbursement from FEMA and FEMA will submit a bill to the State for the non-Federal share of the mission assignment.

(h) Reimbursement of DOD. Reimbursement will be made in accordance with §206.8 of these regulations.

§ 206.35 Requests for emergency declarations.
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(a) When an incident occurs or threatens to occur in a State, which would not qualify under the definition of a major disaster, the Governor of a State, or the Acting Governor in his/her absence, may request that the President declare an emergency. The Governor should submit the request to the President through the appropriate Regional Director to ensure prompt acknowledgment and processing. The request must be submitted within 5 days after the need for assistance under title V becomes apparent, but no longer than 30 days after the occurrence of the incident, in order to be considered. The period may be extended by the Associate Director provided that a written request for such extension is made by the Governor, or Acting Governor, during the 30-day period immediately following the incident. The extension request must stipulate the reason for the delay.

(b) The basis for the Governor's request must be the finding that the situation:

(1) Is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capability of the State and the affected local government(s); and

(2) Requires supplementary Federal emergency assistance to save lives and to protect property, public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a disaster.

(c) In addition to the above findings, the complete request shall include:

(1) Confirmation that the Governor has taken appropriate action under State law and directed the execution of the State emergency plan;

(2) Information describing the State and local efforts and resources which have been or will be used to alleviate the emergency;

(3) Information describing other Federal agency efforts and resources which have been or will be used in responding to this incident; and

(4) Identification of the type and extent of additional Federal aid required.

(d) Modified declaration for Federal emergencies. The requirement for a Governor's request under paragraph (a) of this section can be waived when an emergency exists for which the primary responsibility rests in the Federal government because the emergency involves a subject area for which, under the Constitution or laws of the United States, the Federal government exercises exclusive or preeminent responsibility and authority. Any party may bring the existence of such a situation to the attention of the FEMA Regional Director. Any recommendation for a Presidential declaration of emergency in the absence of a Governor's request must be initiated by the Regional Director or transmitted through the Regional Director by another Federal agency. In determining that such an emergency exists, the Associate Director or Regional Director shall consult the Governor of the affected State, if practicable.

(e) Other authorities. It is not intended for an emergency declaration to preempt other Federal agency authorities and/or established plans and response mechanisms in place prior to the enactment of the Stafford Act.

§ 206.36 Requests for major disaster declarations.
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(a) When a catastrophe occurs in a State, the Governor of a State, or the Acting Governor in his/her absence, may request a major disaster declaration. The Governor should submit the request to the President through the appropriate Regional Director to ensure prompt acknowledgment and processing. The request must be submitted within 30 days of the occurrence of the incident in order to be considered. The 30-day period may be extended by the Associate Director, provided that a written request for an extension is submitted by the Governor, or Acting Governor, during this 30-day period. The extension request will stipulate reasons for the delay.

(b) The basis for the request shall be a finding that:

(1) The situation is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments; and

(2) Federal assistance under the Act is necessary to supplement the efforts and available resources of the State, local governments, disaster relief organizations, and compensation by insurance for disaster-related losses.

(c) In addition to the above findings, the complete request shall include:

(1) Confirmation that the Governor has taken appropriate action under State law and directed the execution of the State emergency plan;

(2) An estimate of the amount and severity of damages and losses stating the impact of the disaster on the public and private sector;

(3) Information describing the nature and amount of State and local resources which have been or will be committed to alleviate the results of the disaster;

(4) Preliminary estimates of the types and amount of supplementary Federal disaster assistance needed under the Stafford Act; and

(5) Certification by the Governor that State and local government obligations and expenditures for the current disaster will comply with all applicable cost sharing requirements of the Stafford Act.

(d) For those catastrophes of unusual severity and magnitude when field damage assessments are not necessary to determine the requirement for supplemental Federal assistance, the Governor or Acting Governor may send an abbreviated written request through the Regional Director for a declaration of a major disaster. This may be transmitted in the most expeditious manner available. In the event the FEMA Regional Office is severely impacted by the catastrophe, the request may be addressed to the Director of FEMA. The request must indicate a finding in accordance with §206.36(b), and must include as a minimum the information requested by §206.36 (c)(1), (c)(3), and (c)(5). Upon receipt of the request, FEMA shall expedite the processing of reports and recommendations to the President. Notification to the Governor of the Presidential declaration shall be in accordance with 44 CFR 206.39. The Associate Director shall assure that documentation of the declaration is later assembled to comply fully with these regulations.

§ 206.37 Processing requests for declarations of a major disaster or emergency.
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(a) Acknowledgment. The Regional Director shall provide written acknowledgment of the Governor's request.

(b) Regional summary. Based on information obtained by FEMA/State preliminary damage assessments of the affected area(s) and consultations with appropriate State and Federal officials and other interested parties, the Regional Director shall promptly prepare a summary of the PDA findings. The data will be analyzed and submitted with a recommendation to the Associate Director. The Regional Analysis shall include a discussion of State and local resources and capabilities, and other assistance available to meet the major disaster or emergency-related needs.

(c) FEMA recommendation. Based on all available information, the Director shall formulate a recommendation which shall be forwarded to the President with the Governor's request.

(1) Major disaster recommendation. The recommendation will be based on a finding that the situation is or is not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the State and its local governments. It will also contain a determination of whether or not supplemental Federal assistance under the Stafford Act is necessary and appropriate. In developing a recommendation, FEMA will consider such factors as the amount and type of damages; the impact of damages on affected individuals, the State, and local governments; the available resources of the State and local governments, and other disaster relief organizations; the extent and type of insurance in effect to cover losses; assistance available from other Federal programs and other sources; imminent threats to public health and safety; recent disaster history in the State; hazard mitigation measures taken by the State or local governments, especially implementation of measures required as a result of previous major disaster declarations; and other factors pertinent to a given incident.

(2) Emergency recommendation. The recommendation will be based on a report which will indicate whether or not Federal emergency assistance under section 502 of the Stafford Act is necessary to supplement State and local efforts to save lives, protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. Only after it has been determined that all other resources and authorities available to meet the crisis are inadequate, and that assistance provided in section 502 of the Stafford Act would be appropriate, will FEMA recommend an emergency declaration to the President.

(d) Modified Federal emergency recommendation. The recommendation will be based on a report which will indicate that an emergency does or does not exist for which assistance under section 502 of the Stafford Act would be appropriate. An emergency declaration will not be recommended in situations where the authority to respond or coordinate is within the jurisdiction of one or more Federal agencies without a Presidential declaration. However, where there are significant unmet needs of sufficient severity and magnitude, not addressed by other assistance, which could appropriately be addressed under the Stafford Act, the involvement of other Federal agencies would not preclude a declaration of an emergency under the Act.

§ 206.38 Presidential determination.
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(a) The Governor's request for a major disaster declaration may result in either a Presidential declaration of a major disaster or an emergency, or denial of the Governor's request.

(b) The Governor's request for an emergency declaration may result only in a Presidential declaration of an emergency, or denial of the Governor's request.

[55 FR 2292, Jan. 23, 1990; 55 FR 5458, Feb. 15, 1990]

§ 206.39 Notification.
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(a) The Governor will be promptly notified by the Director or his/her designee of a declaration by the President that an emergency or a major disaster exists. FEMA also will notify other Federal agencies and other interested parties.

(b) The Governor will be promptly notified by the Director or his/her designee of a determination that the Governor's request does not justify the use of the authorities of the Stafford Act.

(c) Following a major disaster or emergency declaration, the Regional Director or Associate Director will promptly notify the Governor of the designations of assistance and areas eligible for such assistance.

§ 206.40 Designation of affected areas and eligible assistance.
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(a) Eligible assistance. The Associate Director has been delegated authority to determine and designate the types of assistance to be made available. The initial designations will usually be announced in the declaration. Determinations by the Associate Director of the types and extent of FEMA disaster assistance to be provided are based upon findings whether the damage involved and its effects are of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the response capabilities of the State, the affected local governments, and other potential recipients of supplementary Federal assistance. The Associate Director may authorize all, or only particular types of, supplementary Federal assistance requested by the Governor.

(b) Areas eligible to receive assistance. The Associate Director also has been delegated authority to designate the disaster-affected areas eligible for supplementary Federal assistance under the Stafford Act. These designations shall be published in the Federal Register. A disaster-affected area designated by the Associate Director includes all local government jurisdictions within its boundaries. The Associate Director may, based upon damage assessments in any given area, designate all or only some of the areas requested by the Governor for supplementary Federal assistance.

(c) Requests for additional designations after a declaration. After a declaration by the President, the Governor, or the GAR, may request that additional areas or types of supplementary Federal assistance be authorized by the Associate Director. Such requests shall be accompanied by appropriate verified assessments and commitments by State and local governments to demonstrate that the requested designations are justified and that the unmet needs are beyond State and local capabilities without supplementary Federal assistance. Additional assistance or areas added to the declaration will be published in the Federal Register.

(d) Time limits to request. In order to be considered, all supplemental requests under paragraph (c) of this section must be submitted within 30 days from the termination date of the incident, or 30 days after the declaration, whichever is later. The 30-day period may be extended by the Associate Director provided that a written request is made by the appropriate State official during this 30-day period. The request must include justification of the State's inability to meet the deadline.

§ 206.41 Appointment of disaster officials.
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(a) Federal Coordinating Officer. Upon a declaration of a major disaster or of an emergency by the President, the Director, or in his absence, the Deputy Director, or alternately, the Associate Director shall appoint an FCO who shall initiate action immediately to assure that Federal assistance is provided in accordance with the declaration, applicable laws, regulations, and the FEMA-State Agreement.

(b) Disaster Recovery Manager. The Regional Director shall designate a DRM to exercise all the authority of the Regional Director in a major disaster or an emergency.

(c) State Coordinating Officer. Upon a declaration of a major disaster or of an emergency, the Governor of the affected State shall designate an SCO who shall coordinate State and local disaster assistance efforts with those of the Federal Government.

(d) Governor's Authorized Representative. In the FEMA-State Agreement, the Governor shall designate the GAR, who shall administer Federal disaster assistance programs on behalf of the State and local governments and other grant or loan recipients. The GAR is responsible for the State compliance with the FEMA-State Agreement.

§ 206.42 Responsibilities of coordinating officers.
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(a) Following a declaration of a major disaster or an emergency, the FCO shall:

(1) Make an initial appraisal of the types of assistance most urgently needed;

(2) In coordination with the SCO, establish field offices and Disaster Application Centers as necessary to coordinate and monitor assistance programs, disseminate information, accept applications, and counsel individuals, families and businesses concerning available assistance; (continued)