Act now to request federal COVID public assistance funds

The Washington Emergency Management Division - Public Assistance Program will provide help to applicants in our state that intend to request federal public assistance funds for the COVID-19 response. Applicants must submit their request as soon as possible, but no later than June 30, 2022.

We have already received more than 800 requests for public assistance statewide, however, many have yet to submit a project.

We encourage our state agencies, local emergency managers, tribal partners, and public health authorities to submit projects. Eligible applicants must submit project applications for work under the 100 percent cost share by December 30, 2022.

 

Recent changes to the Public Assistance Program

On March 1, 2022, the White House released a Memorandum on Maximizing Assistance to Respond to COVID-19. The Administration’s goal is to support communities as we continue to combat and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The memorandum provides for several modifications (end-dates and deadlines). Here is a summary of items that will affect the Public Assistance Program:

  • Extends the 100 percent cost-share until July 1, 2022. This includes the continued ability to use Title 32 National Guard forces to support response activities.
  • After July 1, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will implement a 90 percent Federal Cost Share, rather than revert across the board to the statutory minimum 75 percent Federal Cost Share that applies to typical federal disaster declarations.
  • FEMA will set a July 1, 2022 deadline for potential applicants to submit their Request for Public Assistance, which determines whether an applicant is eligible to submit projects for grant funding.

 

How to submit a Request for Public Assistance

  1. Email Assist.Public@mil.wa.gov with “COVID-19 RPA Assistance Requested” in the subject line. In the body of the email include the following:
    • “We’ve been advised to request assistance submitting a FEMA Request for Public Assistance (RPA) form in the Grants Portal for the COVID-19 response. We have eligible expenditures that exceed the $3,300 minimum threshold.”
  2. Someone from the Washington Emergency Management Division - Public Assistance Program will reach out and help you through the steps to log into the grants portal to submit the RPA, due by June 30, 2022.
  3. Your assigned Program Delivery Manager will work with you to complete the steps necessary to submit the project information and supporting documents into the Grants Portal for FEMA’s review.