The Public Assistance Grant Program (PA), comprised of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants, provides help to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to restore infrastructures damaged during disaster events receiving a presidential declaration. FEMA PA grants are authorized by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. It is the intent of the Stafford Act that federal assistance should supplement local, state, and private relief organizations. Specifically, the PA program provides assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and permanent repairs of infrastructure. The Federal share of these expenses is typically 75% of eligible restoration costs with the state providing 12% and the applicant being responsible for 13% of the eligible costs. Through the PA program, FEMA may also provide additional project funding for mitigation measures to eliminate, or lessen, the potential of damages during future disaster events.
FEMA is responsible for managing the PA Program, approving grants and providing technical assistance to the State and applicants. The Recovery Branch acts as the Grantee for the PA Program by educating potential applicants, managing applicant files, distributing funds to applicants, and facilitating disputes between applicants and FEMA. Applicants are responsible for maintaining accurate supporting documentation, complying with federal and state program requirements, and completing projects according to designated scopes of work.