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1 1 (June 24, 2020)

handle is hein.crs/govdvyz0001 and id is 1 raw text is: Gongesssoa Research Service Potential FEMA Emergency Sheltering Options During the COVID-19 Pandemic June 24, 2020 Some hazards (e.g., hurricanes, wildfires) may result in evacuations and displacement of survivors. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state, local, tribal, and territorial governments (SLTTs) are responsible for coordinating emergency sheltering support after a declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act; 42 U.S.C. §§5121 et seq.). The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may complicate efforts to provide sheltering in typical congregate settings. This Insight discusses potential emergency sheltering models previously used by FEMA and challenges posed by COVID-19, as well as policy considerations. Emergency Sheltering Solutions The federal government may provide financial assistance through FEMA to SLTTs when the President declares an emergency or major disaster under the Stafford Act. Emergency sheltering may be authorized under Stafford Act Section 502 following an emergency declaration and Stafford Act Section 403 following a major disaster declaration or Fire Management Assistance Grant declaration (FMAG). This assistance is commonly referred to as Public Assistance (PA) Category B-Emergency Protective Measures. When PA is authorized, FEMA will reimburse state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, as well as eligible nonprofits (PA Applicants) for at least 75% of eligible costs incurred while performing eligible work. FEMA's regulations on emergency sheltering are limited, though program guidance may be issued for a specific incident. FEMA usually supports congregate sheltering in facilities with large, open spaces, such as schools and community centers. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, FEMA has acknowledged the need to ensure appropriate social distancing. Thus, FEMA issued an interim policy for non-congregate sheltering in the event of a Stafford Act declaration through December 31, 2020. FEMA also recommends sheltering with friends or family and other housing solutions. The following sections describe select, PA-authorized emergency sheltering solutions used in the wake of past disasters, as well as FEMA's current interim sheltering policy. Emergency sheltering programs offered may vary depending on post-disaster needs and shelter availability. Congressional Research Service https://crsreports.congress.gov IN 11440 CRS INSIGHT Prepared for Members and Committees of Cogress

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