For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010
WASHINGTON— As a result of impacts caused by Hurricane Sandy, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today announced, in the latest effort to cut through red tape, a new effort to enhance and expedite removal of debris in the communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy.
“The Administration remains committed to bringing all resources to bear to ensure the safety of communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy by facilitating response and recovery efforts,” said Secretary Napolitano.
The Interim Final Rule, issued under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, assists state, tribal and local governments with the response and recovery efforts from Hurricane Sandy. Under the Interim Final Rule, the Department of Homeland Security is authorized to reimburse state and local governments who are Public Assistance applicants for the salaries and benefits of employees who are involved in debris and wreckage removal cleanup efforts for any major disaster or emergency declared by the President on or after Oct. 27, 2012, in response to Hurricane Sandy for up to 30 days.
To ensure that all requirements are met and safeguard against waste and fraud, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued extensive guidance on oversight processes and procedures to monitor debris removal activities.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.
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