FR 2020-29296

The document titled "Puerto Rico; Amendment No. 3 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration" comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was published in the Federal Register. This notice, identified by document number 2020-29296, serves to amend an earlier disaster declaration for Puerto Rico that was originally dated March 27, 2020.

General Summary

The primary purpose of this notice is to announce changes in the management of FEMA's response to the disaster declaration identified as FEMA-4493-DR for Puerto Rico. Effective December 13, 2020, David Maurstad has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster response, taking over from the previous officer, Thomas Von Essen. This change aligns with FEMA's broader efforts in the administration of disaster assistance.

The document also provides specific Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) that are intended for use in reporting and funding distribution. These CFDA numbers correspond to various forms of federal disaster assistance programs, such as Community Disaster Loans and Disaster Unemployment Assistance.

Significant Issues or Concerns

The document itself does not raise immediate concerns, as it primarily serves an administrative function regarding the appointment of a new Federal Coordinating Officer. However, transparency and effective communication in such administrative changes are crucial to maintaining public trust, especially in disaster-affected areas where timely and efficient management can significantly impact recovery efforts.

A potential concern related to broader policy and practice might be the continuity and stability in leadership roles within disaster management. Frequent changes in key positions can sometimes lead to disruptions in operations or shifts in strategic priorities, which might affect long-term disaster recovery projects.

Public Impact

For the general public, particularly the residents of Puerto Rico affected by the disaster in question, the impact of this document may not be immediately visible. However, the effectiveness of federal disaster assistance delivery can influence their recovery timeline and the extent of support available. Having a new Federal Coordinating Officer may bring about changes in how these efforts are organized and executed on the ground.

Additionally, the clarity provided by the CFDA numbers is crucial for ensuring that federal assistance is appropriately reported and utilized. For those involved in coordinating assistance or those applying for the services, having a clear understanding of available resources and their associated bureaucratic processes can facilitate smoother interactions with FEMA.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders such as local government agencies and nonprofit organizations involved in disaster recovery, the appointment of a new Coordinating Officer may necessitate adjustments or updates in their collaboration strategies. A change in leadership could also bring new policies or operational adjustments. It is essential for these stakeholders to remain informed and adaptable to align their recovery efforts with FEMA's objectives effectively.

For FEMA itself, this notice reinforces the agency's commitment to maintaining organized and responsive disaster management practices. By ensuring that leadership roles are filled with qualified personnel like David Maurstad, FEMA enhances its readiness to support affected communities. This transition also underscores the dynamic nature of federal disaster response, highlighting ongoing efforts to adapt and respond to evolving challenges in disaster management.

In conclusion, while the document mainly serves an operational purpose, it underscores the importance of structured leadership and clarity in federal disaster management processes. The changes it announces are ultimately designed to enhance the effectiveness of disaster response efforts, particularly in regions like Puerto Rico that are recovering from significant natural events.