FR 2021-03299

The document in focus is a notice from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regarding an amendment to a previous disaster declaration for the State of Hawaii. Initially declared on April 1, 2020, this amendment is effective as of January 20, 2021. Significant changes include the appointment of Tammy L. Littrell as the new Federal Coordinating Officer, replacing Robert J. Fenton. Additionally, the notice outlines various federal assistance programs available for disaster relief.

General Summary of the Document

The notice effectively updates a prior declaration regarding disaster relief efforts in Hawaii. FEMA's amendment signifies an administrative shift in leadership concerning disaster management coordination by appointing a new Federal Coordinating Officer. It also lists the specific assistance programs available to aid in disaster recovery, which range from community disaster loans and legal services to housing assistance and crisis counseling.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several concerns arise from examining the document. Firstly, while the document lists many assistance programs through specific Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA), it lacks detailed information on the beneficiaries or the allocation process. Such a gap in detail might affect transparency and public understanding of the assistance's distribution.

There is also a lack of clarity regarding what specific changes the amendment introduced to the original disaster declaration. This ambiguity might lead to confusion about any new provisions or modifications to prior commitments.

The document makes a reference to Executive Order 12148 but does not provide a clear explanation or context for those unfamiliar with such governmental orders, potentially limiting comprehension among less-informed readers.

Moreover, the notice does not explain why Robert J. Fenton's appointment was terminated or the criteria for selecting Tammy L. Littrell. This lack of information could lead to questions about the decision-making process and whether it aligns with the best interests of those affected by the disaster in Hawaii.

Impact on the Public

The amendment could essentially have broad impact by reiterating the federal government's commitment to supporting Hawaii through its disaster recovery efforts. Clear communication about available assistance is essential for survivors to rebuild and access necessary resources.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved in the disaster response—local councils, nonprofits, and affected residents in Hawaii—the document's amendments and clarity (or lack thereof) in leadership roles are crucial. A well-delineated leadership may enhance efficiency and responsiveness in managing disaster relief. Conversely, the lack of detail regarding decision processes and specific changes might negatively affect trust and cooperation among these groups.

For beneficiaries of the various assistance programs mentioned, understanding eligibility and the application process is critical. The notice's ambiguity regarding these aspects may hinder their ability to access necessary resources effectively, which can be seen as a negative impact on those in dire need.

In summary, while the notice fulfills its purpose of updating the public about administrative changes in disaster response for Hawaii, it leaves room for improvement in areas of transparency and communication clarity, which are indispensable for effective disaster recovery and community support.