FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Hazard Mitigation is the sustained effort to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property by lessening the impact of a disaster. It is taking action now – before the next disaster – and requires understanding natural and man-made risks and their effects. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides funding for eligible mitigation activities through Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant programs. Hazard mitigation projects are intended to strengthen facilities and communities, making them less vulnerable to future disaster impacts. Elevation of flood-prone structures – physically raising an existing structure above the base flood elevation (BFE) or higher is an example of a hazard mitigation project.
Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grants are authorized by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) and funded by congressional appropriations typically on an annual basis. PDM funding is focused on eligible activities that assist the State is in reducing the risk to population and structures in future hazard events. PDM Grants are awarded on an annual basis. Once an announcement is made by FEMA, the application period is open for approximately 90 days. Applicants will have 60 days from the date of announcement to submit applications to the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). GOHSEP utilizes the remaining 30 days to review, comment and request revisions before the final submission of applications to FEMA. The review and award process can take up to eight (8) months.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Grants (FMA) are authorized by Section 1366 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (NFIA) as amended (NFIA) and are funded by the National Flood Insurance Fund (NFIF) as appropriated by Congress. FMA funding is focused on eligible activities that reduce or eliminate flood insurance claims. Individuals must seek assistance and apply for these grants through their local Parish governing authority.
