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Urban Serach and Rescue Task Forces: Facts and Issues [January 5, 2006]

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"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 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
Disaster Relief and Response: FY2003 Supplemental Appropriations [July 17, 2003]

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"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-passedmeasure 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'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
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
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
Homeland Security Department: FY2008 Request for Appropriations [May 17, 2007]

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"The annual consideration of appropriations bills (regular, continuing, and supplemental) by Congress is part of a complex set of budget processes that also encompasses the consideration of budget resolutions, revenue and debt-limit legislation, other spending measures, and reconciliation bills. In addition, the operation of programs and the spending of appropriated funds are subject to constraints established in authorizing statutes. Congressional action on the budget for a fiscal year usually begins following the submission of the President's budget at the beginning of each annual session of Congress. Congressional practices governing the consideration of appropriations and other budgetary measures are rooted in the Constitution, the standing rules of the House and Senate, and statutes, such as the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974. This report is a guide to one of the regular appropriations bills that Congress considers each year. It is designed to supplement the information provided by the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Homeland Security. It summarizes the status of the bill, its scope, major issues, funding levels, and related congressional activity, and is updated as events warrant. The report lists the key CRS [Congressional Research Service] staff relevant to the issues covered and related CRS products."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Nunez-Neto, Blas; Lake, Jennifer E.; Bea, Keith

2007-05-17
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
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 Legislation for Disaster Assistance: Summary Data [May 21, 2008]

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"This report provides summary information on emergency supplemental appropriations enacted after major disasters since 1989. During the 20-year span from FY1989 through the present, Congress appropriated more than $213 billion for disaster assistance (almost $243 billion in constant 2008 dollars). Most of the appropriations were preceded by a presidential request for supplemental funding. Some appropriations have been offset by rescissions. The most recent and costly disasters occurred in the summer of 2005 when Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma made landfall in Gulf Coast states. Since Hurricane Katrina struck in August of 2005, as of the end of calendar year 2007, more than $123 billion has been appropriated for supplemental disaster funding, most of it needed for the recovery from the 2005 hurricanes. Portions of the appropriations were offset by rescinding more than $34 billion in previously appropriated funds, explained in the section titled 'Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma.' […] On other occasions, however, disaster funding has been part of larger pieces of legislation that appropriated funds for purposes other than disaster assistance. In the latter category of statutes, disaster funding ranges from less than 1% (wildfires and Hurricane Isabel, FY2004) to almost 90% of the total appropriations (Oklahoma City bombing of 2005). The most recent congressional action providing supplemental disaster assistance occurred on November 13, 2007, when the President signed into law P.L. 110-116, the FY2008 Department of Defense Appropriations Act. Division B of the conference report (H.Rept. 110-434) contains supplemental appropriations providing a total of $6.355 billion in disaster related funding. This report will be updated as events warrant to reflect any additional supplemental disaster assistance appropriations enacted into public law in the 110th Congress."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Murray, Justin; Bea, Keith

2008-05-21
Disaster Ecavuation and Displacement Policy: Issues for Congress [September 2, 2005]

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"The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina reaches beyond the borders of the states directly affected by the wind, rain, and floods. Before the storm reached the coast, thousands of residents of Louisiana and Mississippi evacuated to other states, including Texas and Oklahoma. Many people, for a variety of reasons, chose to disregard the mandatory evacuation orders issued by state and local officials. In general, evacuation policy is set and enforced by state and local officials. Federal policy provides for various aspects of civilian evacuation. As Members of Congress explore the challenges and losses in the states affected directly or indirectly by Hurricane Katrina, they may be called upon to consider federal policy options to more fully integrate federal and state authorities."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2005-09-02
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
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
Political Status of Puerto Rico: Options for Congress [May 19, 2010]

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"Elements of the U.S.-Puerto Rico relationship have been and continue to be matters of debate. Some contend that the current political status of Puerto Rico, perhaps with enhancements, remains a viable option. Others argue that commonwealth status is or should be only a temporary fix to be resolved in favor of other solutions considered permanent, non-colonial, and non-territorial. Some contend that if independence is achieved, the close relationship with the United States could be continued through compact negotiations with the federal government. One element apparently shared by all involved is that the people of Puerto Rico seek to attain full, democratic representation, notably through voting rights on national legislation to which they are subject. On April 29, 2010, for the first time since 1998, the House approved (223-169) status-related legislation for Puerto Rico. H.R. 2499 (Pierluisi) would authorize a two-stage plebiscite in Puerto Rico to reconsider the status issue. As passed by the House, the bill provides that if a majority of voters opt for a change in status in the first plebiscite, a slate of four options (independence, sovereignty in association with the United States, statehood, and commonwealth) would be on the ballot for the second plebiscite. Approval of any one of these options by the Puerto Rican voters would arguably set the stage for, but would not mandate, further congressional action. On May 19, 2010, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on H.R. 2499. Leaders of the three major political parties in Puerto Rico testified on the legislation."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Garrett, R. Sam, 1977-

2010-05-19
Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security [Updated June 25, 2003]

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The Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296) requires the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate (EPR) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to coordinate federal emergency management activities. This report examines the law which consolidates federal emergency authorities and resources into EPR--but not terrorism preparedness activities, which are administered by the Border and Transportation Security Directorate within DHS. This report provides summaries of and references to the entities that constitute EPR, as well as brief statements of issues that may come before the 108th Congress.

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Krouse, William J.; Bea, Keith; Morgan, Daniel (Daniel L.)

2003-06-25
Federal Stafford Act Disaster Assistance: Presidential Declarations, Eligible Activities, and Funding [Updated April 28, 2006]

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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 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. The forms of assistance authorized by the Stafford Act include temporary housing, grants for personal uninsured needs of families and individuals, repair of public infrastructure, emergency communications systems, and other forms of assistance. Congress appropriates money for activities authorized by the Stafford Act to the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Appropriations to the DRF remain available until expended. Because the Stafford Act provides the President with permanent authority to direct federal aid to stricken states, Congress need not enact new authorizing legislation to meet immediate needs when disasters occur. However, the widespread and costly damages from Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Wilma, and other disasters continue to raise questions in the 109th Congress about the reach and effectiveness of the Stafford Act."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2006-04-28
FEMA Reorganization Legislation in the 109th Congress [July 7, 2006]

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"Members of Congress have introduced legislation in both the House and Senate to alter federal emergency management organizational structures and responsibilities, amend authorities that guide federal action, impose emergency management leadership qualification requirements, and make other changes. The proposals are based upon investigations conducted on the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other entities in the response to Hurricane Katrina in the fall of 2005. Some observers reduce the matter to one basic question: 'Should FEMA remain within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or should the agency regain their independent status it had before the creation of DHS?'"

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Hogue, Henry B.

2006-07-07
Homeland Security Department: FY2007 [Updated July 5, 2006]

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"This report describes the FY2007 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Senate reported H.R. 5441, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007, on June 29, 2006, which would provide $32.8 billion for DHS for FY2007. The House passed H.R. 5441, on June 6, 2006, and would provide $33.2 billion in net budget authority. The Administration requested a net appropriation of $31.9 billion in net budget authority for FY2007, of which $31.0 billion is discretionary budget authority, and $1 billion is mandatory budget authority. The President's request for appropriations includes the following break out of net budget authority for the four titles of the DHS appropriation bill: (I) Departmental Management and Operations, $1,074 million; (II) Security, Enforcement and Investigations, $22,671 million; (III) Preparedness and Response, $6,385 million; and (IV) Research and Development, Training, Assessments, and Services, $1,965 million."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Lake, Jennifer E.; Frittelli, John

2006-07-05
FEMA Reorganization Legislation in the 109th Congress [July 12, 2006]

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"Members of Congress have introduced legislation in both the House and Senate to alter federal emergency management organizational structures and responsibilities, amend authorities that guide federal action, impose emergency management leadership qualification requirements, and make other changes. The proposals are based upon investigations conducted on the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other entities in the response to Hurricane Katrina in the fall of 2005. Some observers reduce the matter to one basic question: 'Should FEMA remain within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or should the agency regain the independent status it had before the creation of DHS?' The issue, however, is more complex than just one of organizational placement. Other questions include the following: What should be the reach or limit of the entity's authority? What degree of discretion should Congress extend to the President and executive branch officials to act in emergency situations? What functions or responsibilities should be transferred to the new entity? Which should be retained by other DHS entities? How can inter-agency coordination be ensured? To what extent should the White House be involved in emergency management on a continuing basis as well as during an emergency? How might Congress balance recognition of state sovereignty and primacy in the emergency management field while authorizing prompt federal response? If details such as personnel qualifications, training requirements, performance metrics, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms are set in statute, will federal agencies have the flexibility to adapt procedures and personnel to dynamic crises?"

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Hogue, Henry B.

2006-07-12
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
FEMA Reorganization Legislation in the 109th Congress [September 1,2006]

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"Members of Congress have introduced legislation in both the House and Senate to alter federal emergency management organizational structures and responsibilities, amend authorities that guide federal action, impose emergency management leadership qualification requirements, and make other changes. The proposals are based upon investigations conducted on the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other entities in the response to Hurricane Katrina in the fall of 2005. Some observers reduce the matter to one basic question: 'Should FEMA remain within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or should the agency regain their independent status it had before the creation of DHS?'"

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Hogue, Henry B.

2006-09-01
Disaster Relief and Response: FY2003 Supplemental Appropriations [Updated October 1, 2003]

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"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
Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Legislation for Disaster Assistance: Summary Data, FY1989 to FY2007 [Updated July 31, 2007]

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"The most recent and costly disaster occurred in the summer of 2005 when Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma made landfall in Gulf Coast states. To date, Congress has appropriated more than $117 billion in five supplementals, largely in response to those hurricanes. Portions f the appropriations were offset by rescinding over $34 billion in previously appropriated funds, explained in the section titled Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma." President Bush submitted a request to Congress for FY2007 supplemental funding along with the FY2008 budget request. The majority of the supplemental funds enacted on May 25, 2007, in P.L. 110-28 are for the military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The enacted legislation include $6.9 billion for Gulf Coast recovery costs associated with Hurricane Katrina."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Murray, Justin

2007-07-31
Political Status of Puerto Rico: Options for Congress [Updated September 14, 2007]

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"U.S. sovereignty over Puerto Rico originated with the acquisition of the islands in 1898 after the Spanish-American War. […] Puerto Rico is subject to congressional jurisdiction under the Territorial Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Over the past century, Congress passed legislation governing Puerto Rico's relationship with the United States. […] In the 110th Congress, the Resident Commissioner may vote in legislative committees and in the Committee of the Whole. Elements of the U.S.-Puerto Rico relationship have been and continue to be matters of debate. […] A report issued in December 2005 by a presidential task force on the status of Puerto Rico asserts that there are only three constitutionally recognized options for the islands: independence, statehood, or continuation as a territory. In response to the task force report, legislation before the 109th Congress would have addressed the status question through two different mechanisms -- plebiscites or a constitutional convention. Congress took no legislative action on those bills. To date in the 110th Congress, three bills regarding Puerto Rico's political status have been introduced. H.R. 900 authorizes a plebiscite in which Puerto Ricans would vote on continuing the status quo or proceeding toward non-territorial status. H.R. 1230 authorizes a constitutional convention and referendum in Puerto Rico to consider status options. S. 1936 proposes a third approach: a single plebiscite in which voters would choose between the status quo, independence, free association, or statehood."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Garrett, R. Sam, 1977-

2007-09-14
Homeland Security Department: FY2008 Appropriations [Updated February 15, 2008]

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"This report is a guide to one of the regular appropriations bills that Congress considers each year. It is designed to supplement the information provided by the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Homeland Security. It summarizes the status of the bill, its scope, major issues, funding levels, and related congressional activity, and is updated as events warrant. The report lists the key CRS staff relevant to the issues covered and related CRS products. […]. The annual consideration of appropriations bills (regular, continuing, and supplemental) by Congress is part of a complex set of budget processes that also encompasses the consideration of budget resolutions, revenue and debt-limit legislation, other spending measures, and reconciliation bills. In addition, the operation of programs and the spending of appropriated funds are subject to constraints established in authorizing statutes. Congressional action on the budget for a fiscal year usually begins following the submission of the President's budget at the beginning of each annual session of Congress. Congressional practices governing the consideration of appropriations and other budgetary measures are rooted in the Constitution, the standing rules of the House and Senate, and statutes, such as the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974."

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith; Lake, Jennifer E.; Nunez-Neto, Blas

2008-02-15
Massachusetts Emergency Management and Homeland Security Authorities Summarized [March 23, 2004]

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"The Massachusetts statutory code incorporates emergency management with civil defense authorities. The governor has power to control emergency management activities, exercise control over private and public resources in a state of emergency, and enter into agreements with the federal and other state governments. The Defense Council advises the governor on civil defense matters, and the director of civil defense is responsible for the state Emergency Management Agency. Political subdivisions establish local organizations for civil defense. Continuity of government provisions require state officers and directors to list five persons who can serve if such a position is vacant due to absence or disability. Funding from the Commonwealth security trust fund supports emergency response and responding to terrorism. 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

2004-03-23
Emergency Management Preparedness Standards: Overview and Options for Congress [August 12, 2004]

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The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (also referred to as the "9/11 Commission") identifies gaps in emergency response capabilities after the attacks of September 11, 2001. General agreement exists on the intent of the commission's recommendations in this policy area- the need to improve the nation's emergency response capabilities. The policy debate will likely include the implications and consequences of adopting the recommendations concerning the establishment and application of standards, particularly at the federal level. Would federally imposed or endorsed standards diminish the authority and ability of the states, and their local governments, to establish operational procedures that best fit the needs of their communities? Would the imposition of standards through legislation raise unfunded mandate concerns? What effect might the adoption of such standards have upon the substance and nature of the intergovernmental partnership in homeland security and emergency management response efforts? How would existing state authorities in areas other than standards be affected by congressional action? This report presents background information on the commission's findings, on emergency response standards, and on options Congress might consider to address the problems identified in the commission's report. This report will be updated as legislative developments warrant.

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Bea, Keith

2004-08-12
Utah Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [May 27, 2004]

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"The Utah Emergency Services and Homeland Security Act created the Division of Emergency Services and Homeland Security, outlined procedures for hazardous materials emergencies and search and rescue, and provided for mutual aid agreements. Financial support for emergency management activities is derived from federal grants, state matching money, and a state disaster trust fund. The Emergency Interim Succession Act provides for succession of powers of the governor, state officers and judges in emergencies. Other provisions allow the state and local seats of government to be relocated in an emergency. 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

2004-05-27
South Dakota Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [June 18, 2004]

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"Two sections of the South Dakota code, chapter 33 ('Emergency Management') of title 33 ('Military Affairs') and chapter 5 ('Disaster Relief Protective Measures') of title 34 ('Public Health and Safety') primarily address disasters and emergencies. The Secretary of Public Safety coordinates the state's emergency management organizations, but only the governor is authorized to declare a disaster. The state reimburses political subdivisions for costs associated with emergency management activities. Funding for emergency requirements is obtained from the special revenue fund; each county must also establish an emergency management revenue fund. In the event of an attack, state officials must plan for the appointment of emergency interim successors. 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

2004-06-18
Wyoming Emergency Management and Homeland Security Statutory Authorities Summarized [September 3, 2004]

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"The Wyoming Emergency Management Act gives the governor authority to assume operational control over state emergency management functions, delegates powers to the state emergency management agency and local emergency management agencies, and provides for mutual aid agreements. The state Emergency Management Advisory Board assists with preparedness and advises the governor. Federal aid constitutes the primary source of emergency management funds. 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

2004-09-03

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