Disaster Relief Act of 1950
Disaster Relief Act of 1950 : Pub. L. No. 81-875, 64 Stat. 1109. Congress for the first time authorized a coordinated federal response to major disasters. Formally passed as the Federal Disaster Relief Act of 1950). (FEMA, Disaster Basics (IS-292), May 24, 2007 update, p. 2-2). "Public Law 81-875 was significant for a number of reasons. Funding was authorized for a disaster relief program rather than a single-incident response. The responsibility for determining when Federal disaster relief is required was transferred from Congress to the President. The basic philosophy of Federal disaster relief was developed establishing that Federal assistance is supplemental to State and local resources. The basis for later legislation on cost-sharing between Federal and State or local governments was put into place. Provisions were made for emergency repairs to or temporary replacement of essential public facilities. Aid was provided only to State and local governments". (FEMA, Disaster Basics (IS-292), May 24, 2007 update, p. 2-5). "The act authorized federal agencies, "[i]n any major disaster... when directed by the President, to provide assistance" to states and localities by lending federal equipment, supplies, facilities, personnel, and other resources; "by distributing, through the Red Cross or otherwise, medicine, food, and other consumable supplies"; by donating surplus federal property; and "by performing... protective and other work essential for the preservation of life and property, clearing debris and wreckage," repairing and temporarily replacing damaged or destroyed local public facilities, and providing grants to states and localities for these purposes. After the President determined that a natural catastrophe had overwhelmed state and local capabilities, federal aid was to be provided. The act authorized the President to coordinate related agency activities, prescribe related rules and regulations, and "exercise any power or authority conferred on him [by the act] either directly or through such Federal agency as he may designate". The President and agencies were also given budget flexibility with regard to the repair or reconstruction of damaged or destroyed federal facilities". (CRS, Federal Emergency Management and Homeland Security Organization: Historical Developments and Legislative Options, June 1, 2006)
No records Found