JEFFERSON ADDED TO TENNESSEE COUNTIES ELIGIBLE FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
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Updated: July 27, 2017
Local governments and certain private nonprofits in two Tennessee counties are now eligible to receive federal assistance to help cover emergency expenses and repair damage associated with the severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding that occurred May 27-28, 2017, according to state and federal officials.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency said an amendment to the major disaster declaration of June 23, authorizes the Public Assistance Grant Program for Jackson and Jefferson counties.
The Public Assistance Grant Program is a reimbursement program paid to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofits. Under the Public Assistance program, FEMA pays 75 percent of the cost of disaster-related expenses such as infrastructure repairs, overtime and debris removal. Typically, the remaining 25 percent is split between state and local governments at 12.5 percent each. Eligible nonprofits are responsible for the full 25 percent.
The program is administered by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. Eligibility and project approval is determined by FEMA. There are now 14 Tennessee counties eligible for federal aid under the Public Assistance program. Blount, Cumberland, Fayette, Knox, Loudon, Morgan, Putnam, Rhea, Roane, Sevier, Shelby, and Smith counties were included in the June 23 declaration.
All areas in the State of Tennessee are eligible for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides assistance for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.