FEMA Announces Implementation of Immediate Needs Funding

FEMA announced today the implementation of Immediate Needs Funding (INF). This happens when FEMA stops all projects other than those associated with life safety, and is due to the failure of Congress to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). FEMA has been sounding the alarm on this issue for some time now. 

In its announcement, FEMA said “the current disaster environment with a major fire and multiple hurricanes make it necessary to implement INF immediately. This will allow FEMA to continue its focus on response and urgent recovery efforts without interruption.”

Being in INF status means that things that aren’t immediate needs, could be delayed. However, ASFPM did confirm with FEMA that the current DRF circumstances will have no bearing on the ability for NFIP claims to be paid since they are funded through the National Flood Insurance Fund.  

According to the FEMA announcement, “When INF is implemented, funding will continue for Individual Assistance, Public Assistance essential for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities, state management costs, mission assignments and critical ongoing disaster operations.

Under INF, there will not be new obligations for Public Assistance not essential for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities, permanent work and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Obligations for these activities will be paused until the DRF is sufficiently funded. However, FEMA will continue to accept and process Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation grant applications even in categories where the obligations are paused.”

For our part, ASFPM has signed onto a coalition letter with several other national organizations calling for the immediate replenishment of the DRF. The letter was sent to Congressional leadership earlier today. 

Additional FEMA resources:
Immediate Needs Funding Fact Sheet
Immediate Needs Funding FAQ

We will continue to monitor the situation and let you know as things develop.