FR 2020-29281

Overview of the Document

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), part of the Department of Homeland Security, issued a notice regarding a significant declaration made by the President. This declaration recognizes Texas as a major disaster area due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Laura between August 23 and August 27, 2020. The notice, published in the Federal Register, outlines the authorization for federal assistance to support recovery efforts. Key areas such as Galveston, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton, and Orange Counties are identified for Public Assistance, while all regions in Texas are open to support under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The document also designates Jerry S. Thomas as the Federal Coordinating Officer, ensuring ground-level implementation and coordination of federal relief efforts.

Key Issues and Concerns

The document, while impactful, raises several issues. Firstly, it only briefly mentions the allocation criteria for federal disaster assistance and administrative expenses, potentially leaving stakeholders seeking greater transparency and clarity. The mention of federal funds covering 75% of eligible costs without detailing how these costs are calculated might lead to misunderstandings and reduce stakeholder confidence in the process.

Furthermore, the phrase "to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act" about potential modifications to the declaration might create ambiguity about what changes are possible, potentially complicating the application of policy. While a list of Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers is provided, the document lacks clarity on the monitoring and oversight mechanisms for these funds, which might provoke concerns regarding financial transparency and accountability. The absence of a specific total fund allocation or a detailed financial distribution plan could lead to questions about fiscal responsibility and oversight.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

For the public, especially those residing in the affected counties, this declaration signifies a step toward rebuilding and recovery. The federal assistance aims to mitigate the effects of the damage caused by Hurricane Laura by covering 75% of eligible recovery costs. This support can potentially ease the financial burden on local communities and help restore infrastructure and services.

However, the lack of detailed explanations about fund allocation and oversight might raise concerns among taxpayers and affected individuals regarding the efficiency and transparency of the relief process. Specific stakeholders, such as local government officials and disaster recovery agencies, may face challenges due to the ambiguity in fund allocation criteria and eligibility, potentially hindering efficient planning and communication with their communities.

While the appointment of a Federal Coordinating Officer is a positive step for streamlined efforts, all stakeholders would benefit from clearer guidelines and transparent reporting processes to ensure trust and accountability in federal disaster relief operations. Overall, while the document provides a necessary pathway for disaster assistance, the issues highlighted underscore the importance of clear and comprehensive communication in federal relief efforts.