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Transfer of FEMA to the Department of Homeland Security: Issues for Congressional Oversight [December 17, 2002]

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From the Summary: "The Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296) transfers FEMA, along with its assets and responsibilities, to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). For the most part, the mission of FEMA will be carried out within the Emergency Preparedness and Response directorate (EPR) of DHS. The Act also transfers to the EPR directorate specific functions of the Departments of Justice, Health and Human Services, and Commerce. EPR will administer most policies intended to lessen the impact of disasters and will aid recovery when disasters occur. One significant exception is that the Act transfers terrorism-related training and preparedness responsibilities of FEMA's Office of National Preparedness to the Office of Domestic Preparedness within the Border and Transportation Security directorate. The transfer of FEMA (along with other entities) into DHS is intended to address homeland security deficiencies and problems."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2002-12-17
Colorado Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 26, 2004]

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"Six Colorado statutes address terrorism and emergency management: Colorado Response to Terrorism Act; Office of Preparedness, Security and Fire Safety Act; Office of Anti-Terrorism Planning and Training Act; Division of Fire Safety Act; Office of Emergency Management Act; and Colorado Disaster Emergency Act of 1992. Seven units are assigned the main duties of emergency response. Disaster aid is provided at the governor's direction to state agencies by means of a state facility security fund and a disaster emergency fund. The governor and the disaster emergency council may declare disasters. The statutes require that continuity of government rules and plans be adopted. The Office of Emergency Management provides mutual aid in disasters. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-26
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Island Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summaries [April 2, 2004]

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"Key emergency management and homeland security statutes include the Commonwealth Disaster Relief Act and the Commonwealth Disaster Price Freeze Act. Continuity of government operations provisions provide for filling vacancies in the positions of governor and lieutenant governor. A statute provides for studies to reduce the impact of future disasters. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-04-02
Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces: Facts and Issues [April 24, 2006]

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"Since the early 1990s, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Task Forces have been certified, trained, and funded by the federal government. Twenty-eight task forces are located in 19 states. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials may call out the task force (or forces) in closest proximity to the disaster to help locate and extricate victims from collapsed buildings and structures. The task forces represent a partnership involving federal, local government, and private sector experts. Most recently, USAR teams received considerable publicity, and reportedly achieved life-saving results, in their mission to Haiti after the earthquakes of early 2010. Legislation pending before Congress would affect the USAR system in two ways. First, H.R. 119 would designate a New Jersey task force to be part of the system. Other legislation (H.R. 706 and H.R. 3377) would establish statutory authority and federal funding for a USAR response system. Members of Congress will consider FY2011 funding for the task forces during the second session of the 111th Congress, and may elect to debate issues associated with the deployment of USAR task forces to foreign countries."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2006-04-24
Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces: Facts and Issues [March 16, 2010]

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"Since the early 1990s, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Task Forces have been certified, trained, and funded by the federal government. Twenty-eight task forces are located in 19 states. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials may call out the task force (or forces) in closest proximity to the disaster to help locate and extricate victims from collapsed buildings and structures. The task forces represent a partnership involving federal, local government, and private sector experts. Most recently, USAR teams received considerable publicity, and reportedly achieved life-saving results, in their mission to Haiti after the earthquakes of early 2010. Legislation pending before Congress would affect the USAR system in two ways. First, H.R. 119 would designate a New Jersey task force to be part of the system. Other legislation (H.R. 706 and H.R. 3377) would establish statutory authority and federal funding for a USAR response system. Members of Congress will consider FY2011 funding for the task forces during the second session of the 111th Congress, and may elect to debate issues associated with the deployment of USAR task forces to foreign countries."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2010-03-16
Proposed Transfer of FEMA to the Department of Homeland Security [Updated July 29, 2002]

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"The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assists individuals, states and localities, and certain non-profit organizations that have been overwhelmed by, or are at risk from, significant catastrophes, including terrorist attacks. FEMA also coordinates federal emergency management activities and planning for the continuity of much of the federal government should national security be threatened. Bills pending before the 107th Congress (H.R. 5005/S. 2452) would bring FEMA into the proposed Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to form the central component of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) division. The current discussion is a new manifestation of issues that have been debated for decades--how to organize and allocate resources between the tasks of managing natural disasters and homeland (national) security threats."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2002-07-29
Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Hurricane Katrina Relief [Updated June 21, 2006]

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"In response to the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, the 109th Congress enacted two FY2005 emergency supplemental appropriations bills (P.L. 109- 61 and P.L. 109-62), which together provide $62.3 billion for emergency response and recovery needs. However, the funding streams of these appropriated funds and amounts for disaster recovery changed and might undergo further changes as recovery proceeds. The FY2006 appropriations legislation for the Department of Defense (P.L. 109-148) reallocated funds primarily to pay for the restoration of damaged federal facilities. The reallocated funds were not new appropriations; they were derived from the funds appropriated in the two emergency supplemental statutes, as well as from a government-wide rescission. Also, Congress agreed to transfer $712 million from FEMA to the Small Business Administration for disaster loans (P.L. 109-174). Most recently, on February 16, 2006, the Administration submitted an additional request of $19.8 billion in supplemental FY2006 funding for recovery assistance, an amount reduced to $19.3 billion by Congress in enacting H.R. 4939 (P.L. 109-234). This CRS [Congressional Research Service] report summarizes federal disaster assistance funding legislation in the 109th Congress and presents some information on federal expenditures and obligations for disaster recovery activities. This report will be updated as events warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2006-06-21
Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Hurricane Katrina Relief [Updated May 16, 2006]

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"In response to the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, the 109th Congress enacted two FY2005 emergency supplemental appropriations bills (P.L. 109- 61 and P.L. 109-62), which together provide $62.3 billion for emergency response and recovery needs. These funds were appropriated as follows: $60 billion to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for aid to individuals and communities, $1.9 billion to the Department of Defense for facilities and personnel evacuation costs, and $400 million to the Army Corps of Engineers for damaged water resources infrastructure. However, the funding streams of these appropriated funds and amounts for disaster recovery have changed and appear likely to undergo further changes, largely at the request of the Administration. First, the FY2006 appropriations legislation for the Department of Defense (P.L. 109-148) reallocated funds primarily to pay for the restoration of damaged federal facilities. The reallocated funds were not new appropriations; they were derived from the funds appropriated in the two emergency supplemental statutes, as well as from a government-wide rescission. Second, Congress agreed to transfer $712 million from FEMA to the Small Business Administration for disaster loans (P.L. 109-174). Third, on February 16, 2006, the Administration submitted an additional request of $19.8 billion in supplemental FY2006 funding for recovery assistance, which is pending before Congress. This legislation (H.R. 4939) has been approved by the House and Senate; differences remain to be reconciled in conference. This CRS [Congressional Research Service] report summarizes federal disaster assistance funding legislation in the 109th Congress and presents some information on federal expenditures and obligations for disaster recovery activities. This report will be updated as events warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2006-05-16
Maine Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [September 3, 2004]

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From the Document: "The primary state disaster statute (codified at Maine Rev. Stat. Ann., Title 37-B) delegates powers to the governor, the state emergency management agency, and local emergency management agencies. The statute provides for mutual aid agreements among political subdivisions and with Canadian provinces. Maine has established the Natural Disaster Business Assistance Fund to help businesses affected by disasters; other assistance is obtained primarily from federal aid. The governor and political subdivisions may move seats of government during an emergency related to an enemy attack. This report is one of a series that profiles emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-09-03
Federal Emergency Management Agency Funding for Homeland Security and Other Activities [April 9, 2002]

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"In response to the terrorist attacks in the fall of 2001, the Bush Administration requested funds in the FY2003 budget for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that emphasize the agency's homeland security mission. [...] The Initiative would provide grants to state and local police, fire, and other emergency personnel for equipment purchases, improvement of communications capabilities, and training. [...] Emergency food and shelter funds would be transferred to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mitigation funding to reduce the costs of future disasters or to prevent disasters from occurring would no longer be tied to the receipt of disaster assistance, but would primarily derive from competitive grants. Likely issues of debate for the 107th Congress include the advantages and disadvantages of transferring preparedness and equipment funding from the Department of Justice to the First Responder Initiative in FEMA, consolidating hazard mitigation funding, and options for funding disaster assistance."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2002-04-09
California Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 17, 2004]

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"The key emergency management and homeland security statutes for the state of California include the Emergency Services Act, the Disaster Recovery Reconstruction Act and the Disaster Assistance Act. These statutes allow the governor to declare an emergency, provide funds to small businesses and residents for disaster recovery, plan for and mitigate the effects of disasters, and establish a process for the continuation of government should gubernatorial or legislative vacancies occur as the result of a disaster. Although California is not a member of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact the legislature has enacted intrastate mutual aid agreements; the governor has authority to enter into interstate agreements. Other statutes address issues such as disaster dog teams, state employees volunteering for emergency service and agricultural terrorism. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-17
FEMA's Mission: Policy Directives for the Federal Emergency Management Agency [Updated March 13, 2002]

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"The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assists states and localities overwhelmed by, or at risk from, disasters. FEMA also coordinates federal emergency management activities and planning for the continuity of government should national security be threatened. [...] This report identifies authorities drawn from public sources. It does not refer to classified authorities not available to the public, does not include references to temporary authorities that require FEMA to provide assistance for specific disasters or needs, and does not include information on plans, regulations, or operating manuals developed to implement these policies."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2002-03-13
Louisiana Emergency Management and Homeland Security Authorities Summarized [November 22, 2004]

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From the Document: "The Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act requires that state emergency management functions be coordinated with those of the federal government and other states. The statute also confers emergency powers upon the governor and parish presidents and requires the preparation of statewide and local plans for emergency preparedness. The Louisiana Health Emergency Powers Act requires that actions be taken to protect life and control diseases in a public health emergency. Louisiana's Emergency Interim State Executive Succession Act, the Emergency Interim Legislative Succession Act, the Emergency Interim Judicial Succession Act, and the Emergency Interim Local Executive Succession Act provide lines of succession for all levels of government in the state. This report is one of a series that profiles emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-11-22
Kentucky Emergency Management and Homeland Security Authorities Summarized [March 23, 2004]

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From the Document: "Kentucky's primary emergency management statutes create a statewide comprehensive emergency management program with an integrated emergency management system, and provide for assessment, mitigation, preparation, response, and recovery from threats to public safety and all major hazards. They confer emergency management powers upon the governor and the chief executives of local governments. The statutes also provide for mutual aid among the cities and counties, with other states, and the federal government. This report is one of a series that profiles emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Richardson, Sula P.

2004-03-23
Kansas Emergency Management and Homeland Security Authorities Summarized [March 23, 2004]

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From the Document: "Kansas statutes establish a procedure for assessing the need for and distribution of basic necessities following a natural disaster. The governor is authorized to issue a state of emergency proclamation and the legislature plays an oversight role concerning the duration or termination of the emergency. Provisions exist for all three branches of state government to ensure the continuity of government operations. School districts are authorized to donate surplus property to disaster relief programs. This report is one of a series that profiles emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-23
Disaster Mitigation Assistance Bills in the 106th Congress: Comparison of Provisions [May 5, 2000]

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"The Administration initiative to shift federal emergency management policy away from a 'response and recovery' emphasis has generated little congressional controversy, although some have raised concerns about the cost effectiveness of implementing a mitigation strategy. Greater attention, it is generally argued, should be given to mitigation (loss reduction) efforts before disasters occur in order to reduce future losses. Legislation (H.R. 707, S. 1691) pending before the 106th Congress would amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Stafford Act) which authorizes federal assistance when the President declares that a catastrophe has overwhelmed state and local resources. Some future disasters may be prevented, or their impact lessened, by taking action beforehand. State and local governments have lowered disaster costs by retrofitting buildings in earthquake zones, elevating structures in floodplains, revising and enforcing building codes, or modifying land use plans. Advocates of the legislation seek to support these and other mitigation efforts. H.R. 707 and S. 1691 would amend the Stafford Act to shift federal policy toward predisaster hazard mitigation. Both bills contain three titles, share an overall intent, and contain roughly similar provisions. Title I of each bill stresses the need to prepare for disasters and to take mitigative steps, and includes new authority for predisaster hazard mitigation grants. Title II of each bill would amend Stafford Act provisions concerning administrative reimbursement and facility repair and replacement authority. Also, private nonprofit organizations would need to apply for Small Business Administration loans before applying for Stafford Act assistance to repair or replace damaged facilities. Title III in both bills consists of miscellaneous changes."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2000-05-05
Federal Disaster Policies after Terrorists Strike: Issues and Options for Congress [June 24, 2002]

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How will the federal government respond to the short- and long-term needs of terror-stricken communities? As a result of the terrorist attacks of 2001, a plethora of legislation has been enacted and continues to be considered by the 107th Congress to address homeland security and emergency management issues. Much of the debate in and out of Congress focuses on legislation that addresses policies and practices intended to prevent future attacks. Congress is also considering other policy issues, including those that would be implicated should another attack occur, despite the best prevention and deterrence efforts. This report, prepared at congressional request, is intended to assist Congress as it considers options for consequence management legislation. The report collects and examines information on federal policies that would be implemented in the event that other terrorist attacks occur. It then asks about each of these policies: Based on experiences gained thus far, should Congress consider changes in federal consequence management policies to address the effects of possible future attacks? For the most part, this report concentrates on the impact of the airliner attacks in New York City because the consequences of those attacks in a major urban center raise complex issues of response and recovery that were not as evident in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the District of Columbia after the other airline crashes and the anthrax mailings.

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2002-06-24
Urban Serach and Rescue Task Forces: Facts and Issues [January 5, 2006]

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From the Summary: "Since the early 1990s, Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces have been certified, trained, and funded by the federal government. Twenty-eight task forces are located throughout the United States. When the President issues a major disaster declaration, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials may call out the task force (or forces) in closest proximity to the disaster to help locate and extricate victims from collapsed buildings and structures. The task forces represent a partnership involving federal, local government, and private sector experts. Over $100 million in federal funds have been provided in recent years to equip, train, and assist the task forces that are considered to be part of the federal emergency response network. This report provides basic information on the task forces, presents some issues that might be addressed by Congress, and will be updated as circumstances warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2006-01-05
Disaster Relief and Response: FY2003 Supplemental Appropriations [July 17, 2003]

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From the Document: "On July 7, 2003, President Bush submitted a second supplemental appropriations request to Congress for FY2003. The request seeks $1.889 billion for three disaster relief activities: wildfire suppression and rehabilitation carried out by the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior ($289 million), disaster relief administered by the Department of Homeland Security ($1.550 billion), and the investigation and recovery associated with the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster ($50 million). On July 9, 2003, the Senate Appropriations Committee reported the FY2004 legislative branch appropriations measure (S. 1383), which included the FY2003 supplemental in Title III, adding $100 million for AmeriCorps grants, among other provisions. The next day, July 10, the Senate incorporated S. 1383 into the legislative branch appropriations bill that had been passed by the House (H.R. 2657) on July 9. On July 11, 2003, the full Senate approved H.R. 2657, as amended, with additional provisions related to firefighting, flood control, AmeriCorps grants, education for the disadvantaged, and pest infestation management activities, among other provisions. The total cost of the Senate-passed-measure is $2.044 billion, 8.2% more than requested. The House has not yet acted on the supplemental funding request. Final funding awaits a pending conference on H.R. 2657."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2003-07-17
FEMA and Disaster Relief [Updated March 6, 1998]

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"The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) helps states and localities prepare for and cope with disasters that overwhelm their own capabilities. FEMA administers policies related to emergency management and planning, disaster relief, fire prevention, earthquake hazard reduction, emergency broadcasting services, flood insurance, mitigation programs, and dam safety. President Clinton has requested $3.1 billion for FEMA in FY1999. The majority of the funds ($2.3 billion, or 75%) are requested as disaster relief funding that would only be available should the President and Congress designate it as emergency funding under the Balanced Budget Act. The remaining 25% ($844 million) would fund agency salaries, grants to state and local governments, and training activities, and would replenish the Disaster Relief Fund with $308 million. For the past 14 years, annual appropriations for FEMA have ranged from as little as $600 million to a high of approximately $5.9 billion, including supplemental measures. For FY1998, a total of $842 million is available, as appropriated in P.L. 105-65. In FY1997 a total of $5.1 billion was appropriated--$1.8 billion in the FY1997 appropriations legislation (P.L. 104-204) and $3.3 billion in supplemental appropriations (P.L. 105-18). The principal federal authority for the provision of disaster relief is the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Stafford Act). The act authorizes the President to issue major disaster or emergency declarations (the latter provide considerably less federal assistance than the former), sets out eligibility criteria, and specifies the types of assistance the President may authorize."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

1998-03-06
Federal Stafford Act Disaster Assistance: Presidential Declarations, Eligible Activities, and Funding [March 16, 2010]

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"The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Stafford Act) authorizes the President to issue major disaster or emergency declarations in response to catastrophes in the United States that overwhelm state and local governments. Such declarations result in the distribution of a wide range of federal aid to individuals and families, certain nonprofit organizations, and public agencies. Congress appropriates money to the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) for disaster assistance authorized by the Stafford Act. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) administers most, but not all, of the authority the statute vests in the President. [...] Legislation pending in the 111th Congress would amend the statute. Among the proposals, H.R. 3377, the Disaster Response, Recovery, and Mitigation Enhancement Act of 2009, would authorize the President to modernize the integrated public alert system to ensure that warnings are disseminated to the public, provide health benefits to temporary or intermittent federal employees who provide disaster assistance, authorize the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System, and make other changes to the statute. Other pending bills would reauthorize a mortgage and rental assistance program terminated in 2000 (H.R. 888/S. 763), establish new eligibility criteria (H.R. 941, H.R. 1059, H.R. 1494, H.R. 2484, H.R. 4141, and S. 1069), and mandate establishment of a tracking and storage plan for housing units used by disaster survivors (H.R. 3437/S. 713)."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2010-03-16
Assistance after Hurricanes and Other Disasters: FY2004 and FY2005 Supplemental Appropriations [Updated October 22, 2004]

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"After a series of devastating hurricanes struck Florida and other states in the summer of 2004, the 108th Congress passed two emergency supplemental appropriations statutes that provide a total of $16.475 billion to areas stricken by the hurricanes and other natural disasters. The House and Senate quickly approved legislation (H.R. 5005) the day after President Bush submitted a request on September 6 for $2 billion in FY2004 funding, largely in response to the devastation caused by Hurricanes Charley and Frances in Florida. The President signed the bill into law (P.L. 108-303) on September 7. All of the $2 billion was for assistance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)... While few debated the need for federal disaster assistance, considerable discussion occurred on the scope of the legislation. Members representing midwestern and western states contended that the continuing drought affecting their farming constituents constituted a disaster that required aid beyond that previously provided. The Administration did not request agricultural aid to producers in states not affected by the hurricanes. The other issue that was a matter of public debate focused on a proposed amendment in the House to fully offset the cost of the FY2005 supplemental through a proportional reduction in discretionary funds; the House rejected the amendment."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Chite, Ralph M.

2004-10-22
Disaster Relief and Response: FY2003 Supplemental Appropriations [Updated October 1, 2003]

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From the Document: "Federal departments and agencies are authorized to undertake a range of Emergency management activities, including disaster relief and response efforts. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has primary responsibility, but other departments and agencies provide grants and loans to disaster victims and reimburse state and local governments overwhelmed by costs associated with clearing debris and rebuilding facilities, among other forms of assistance. FY2003 supplemental funding for these activities has been the issue of debate. On September 30, 2003, President Bush signed into law H.R. 2657 (P.L. 108-83), the appropriations measure for the legislative branch for FY2004. Title III of the statute, titled the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2003, appropriates $938 million for four departments, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the federal judiciary for FY2003. Roughly half of the funding is appropriated to DHS for disaster relief; the majority of the other funding would be appropriated for costs associated with wildfires, flood control, and other emergencies."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2003-10-01
Alabama Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 23, 2004]

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"Alabama has two statutes that address emergencies and disasters--the Alabama Emergency Management Act of 1955 (EMA) and the Alabama Homeland Security Act of 2003 (HSA, HB335). The EMA includes authorities to ensure that preparations are made to manage disasters or emergencies and to assist and encourage emergency management and emergency preparedness activities by making grants to political subdivisions for that purpose. The HSA established a Department of Homeland Security and other entities to coordinate and undertake state preparedness, planning, and response activities. A third statute, the Emergency Interim Succession Act, provides for the succession of powers for legislators and officers of political subdivisions in emergencies. Assistance is provided to victims through an extensive mutual aid program and federal aid. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-23
American Samoa Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [April 2, 2004]

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"The Territorial Disaster Assistance Act of American Samoa addresses hazard mitigation and preparedness. The governor is authorized to issue an executive order to declare an emergency, which begins the emergency response process. Continuity of government operations provisions address vacancies in the offices of governor and lieutenant governor, chief justice and associate judges. The statute has established a disaster contingency fund. The governor may enter into mutual aid compacts to assist with disasters. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-04-02
Louisiana Emergency Management and Homeland Security Authorities Summarized [Updated September 2, 2005]

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From the Document: "The Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act requires that state emergency management functions be coordinated with those of the federal government and other states. The statute also confers emergency powers upon the governor and parish presidents and requires the preparation of statewide and local plans for emergency preparedness. The Louisiana Health Emergency Powers Act requires that actions be taken to protect life and control diseases in a public health emergency. Louisiana's Emergency Interim State Executive Succession Act, the Emergency Interim Legislative Succession Act, the Emergency Interim Judicial Succession Act, and the Emergency Interim Local Executive Succession Act provide lines of succession for all levels of government in the state."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2005-09-02
Arkansas Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 17, 2004]

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"The 'Arkansas Emergency Services Act of 1973' confers emergency powers upon the governor and outlines extensive duties of the state Department of Emergency Management (DEM) as well as political subdivisions. Several funding mechanisms are established in state law, with initial capitalization levels specified and limits set on the use of the funds. Local governments may commit to interjurisdictional agreements for the provision of emergency services. An emergency volunteer reserve cadre is authorized to be established within the DEM. The Arkansas 'Emergency Interim Legislative Succession Act and Emergency Interim Executive and Judicial Succession Act' provide for lines of succession for all levels of government. The governor may change the location of legislative sessions and call an emergency session in the event of an attack. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-17
Federal Emergency Management and Homeland Security Organization: Historical Developments and Legislative Options [April 19, 2006]

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"Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf coasts of Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi on August 29, 2005, resulting in severe and widespread damage to the region. The response of the federal government, especially the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in the aftermath of the storm has been widely criticized. Some of the criticism has focused on the organizational arrangements involving FEMA and its parent, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). One month prior to the hurricane, in July 2005, Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff announced plans for a reorganization of DHS, including FEMA. Known as the 'Second Stage Review,' or '2SR,' the reorganization transferred emergency preparedness functions from FEMA to a new Preparedness Directorate, among other changes. The Administration began implementation of the reorganization on October 1, 2005. In response to Administration requests, congressional support for the proposal was provided through approval of the FY2006 appropriations legislation. In the aftermath of the Katrina disaster, administrative structure issues remain a matter of contention. Pending legislation before Congress (H.R. 3656, H.R. 3659, H.R. 3816, H.R. 3685, H.R. 4009, H.R. 4493, S. 1615, S. 2302, and H.R. 4840) would make further changes. The release of reports by the House, Senate, and White House on the response to Hurricane Katrina may lead to further examination of the issues. This report provides background information on the establishment and evolution of federal emergency management organizational arrangements since the end of World War II and briefly summarizes the legislative proposals."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Hogue, Henry B.

2006-04-19
Alaska Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 17, 2004]

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"Alaska's emergency management statute clarifies and strengthens the roles of the governor, state agencies, and local governments in prevention and preparation for response and recovery from a disaster. The statute also addresses the prevention of disasters caused or aggravated by inadequate planning for, and regulation of, public and private facilities and land use. State and local emergency management plans are tied to environmental plans to create a coordinated response to disasters. Other provisions reside in the civil defense statute which expands gubernatorial and emergency powers and mutual aid agreements to respond to an enemy attack. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and three territories (American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Warnock, Kae M.

2004-03-17
Arizona Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [March 17, 2004]

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"Arizona's emergency response statutes established a Division of Emergency Management under the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs. The governor and legislature share duties of declaration and government continuity. Aid is provided for through the Interstate Mutual Aid Compact, local jurisdiction agreements and federal assistance. This report is one of a series that profiles the emergency management and homeland security statutory authorities of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each profile identifies the more significant elements of state statutes, generally as codified. Congressional readers may wish to conduct further searches for related provisions using the Internet link presented in the last section of this report. The National Conference of State Legislatures provided primary research assistance in the development of these profiles under contract to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Summary information on all of the profiles is presented in CRS Report RL32287. This report will be updated as developments warrant."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Runyon, L. Cheryl; Richardson, Pat

2004-03-17

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