The Stafford Act authorizes the President to declare that a major disaster or emergency exists. This "declaration" is the key to making available an array of Federal disaster assistance programs to State and local governments and individuals.

Public Assistance

Under Section 406 of the Stafford Act, the President may authorize funds to State or local government for repair, restoration or replacement of a public facility damaged or destroyed by a major disaster. Generally, Public Assistance programs pay for 75 percent of the approved project costs. Public Assistance may include debris removal, emergency protective measures and public services, repair of damaged public property, loans needed by communities for essential government functions, and grants for public schools.

Section 406 also authorizes funds for hazard mitigation measures that the State or local government determines to be necessary to meet the need for government services and functions in areas affected by the disaster.