FEMA uses the term Special  Considerations to describe issues other than  program eligibility that could affect the scope of work and funding for a  project. These issues include insurance, hazard mitigation measures, and  environmental and historic preservation compliance with Federal laws, regulations,  and Executive Orders.
   To expedite the approval of grant funds, FEMA  strives to identify and resolve Special Considerations issues as early in the  recovery process as possible. To accomplish this objective:
   †  Teams work to  identify Special Considerations during the Preliminary Damage Assessment (see  Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA))
   †  FEMA meets with  the State and other agencies that might be involved in Special Considerations  to outline strategies for resolving Special Considerations issues
   †  The PAC Crew  Leader (see Public Assistance Coordination (PAC)  Crew Leader) works with the applicant to identify  Special
   Considerations issues as early as possible in  the project formulation process
   †  FEMA provides  Specialists to review Special Considerations issues at the Joint Field  Office
   The applicant has a critical role in the  identification and quick resolution of Special Considerations issues. By  being aware of the way in which these issues can affect projects, the  applicant can assist FEMA by identifying the issues as early as possible and  providing the information necessary for review.
   (See Floodplain  Management, Insurance, Flood Insurance, Hazard Mitigation–Section 406, National Environmental Policy Act  (NEPA), and National  Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).)
   Reference: Public Assistance Guide, FEMA 322,  pages 115-136