When the impact of a disaster is so severe that neither the State nor local government can adequately respond, either by direct performance or by contract, the State may request that certain emergency work be performed directly by a Federal Agency. This is called Direct Federal Assistance. Under the provisions of 44 CFR §206.208, FEMA, through “Mission Assignments,” may use appropriate Federal agencies to perform work or to contract for it to be performed.
The work to be performed must be eligible under the Stafford Act and Federal regulations, and is limited to:
Debris removal
Emergency protective measures
Emergency communications
Emergency public transportation
There may be a limited period of 100% Federal funding when conditions warrant. Otherwise, the assistance is subject to the cost-sharing provisions applicable to the disaster. The State must reimburse FEMA for the appropriate non-Federal share of the cost of the work, including any administrative costs of the performing Federal agency.
References: 44 CFR §206.208
100% Funding for Direct Federal Assistance and Grant Assistance, FEMA Policy 9523.9, dated June 9, 2006
Public Assistance Guide, FEMA 322, pages 76-78
