FEMA Extends 100% Reimbursement for Debris

(News release from Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and Senator John Cornyn)

WASHINGTON - Today U.S. Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) and John Cornyn (R-TX) announced that the White House will extend 100% federal reimbursement for debris removal (Category A) for an additional six months for Texas counties impacted by Hurricane Ike. 

"I spoke with DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff this morning to encourage the extension of reimbursement for debris removal," said Sen. Hutchison.  "Counties that I saw firsthand were halting debris removal efforts because they did not know if they would receive federal reimbursement.  This decision was made by the President and will extend into the next administration.  I appreciate the cooperation of DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff in supporting this help.  This federal assistance is invaluable to those communities recovering from this devastating storm.  After this six month period, we will assess debris removal efforts to see if additional federal assistance is needed.  I have done everything that I could within my control to specifically address the reimbursement needs of Texas counties, including working with our Congressional delegation to assure Hurricane Ike victims were covered in the Supplemental Disaster bill that passed Congress in September." 

"This announcement is very good news and I'm pleased FEMA recognizes the enormity of the difficult situation facing communities in Texas," said Sen. Cornyn.  "Even months after Ike made landfall, local governments are struggling to restore basic services and the cost of debris recovery has been tremendous.  Now, more than ever, FEMA needs to step up to the plate and do its part to help with the recovery and rebuilding effort.  This is welcome news from FEMA and I would hope they will be as responsive in the area of housing as they have been when it's come to debris removal.  Regardless, I will continue to do whatever I can to assist state and local leaders." 

The announcement states that the Federal Government will pay 100 percent of eligible costs under the Stafford Act for public assistance work in Category A (debris removal) for a 180 day period beginning retroactively on October 26.  The normal rate of reimbursement under the Stafford Act is 75 percent federal support, 25 percent state and local support.  The State of Texas requires local communities to bear the 25 percent entirely.