Since the 2003 hurricane season, CAI has been working to change a number of FEMA regulations regarding disaster recovery. Perhaps most importantly, we have been working to change the rule that prevents FEMA reimbursement to community associations for removal of debris on roads and public areas in their communities.
Under the current rules, FEMA provides reimbursement for roads maintained by governments, but not for clearing roads maintained by associations, even if they are public thoroughfares and necessary for the provision of emergency services. Practically, this impacts public safety, and philosophically it is another example of community association taxpayers receiving a lower level of service from government.
Happily for those on the Gulf Coast, FEMA has suspended its rules on reimbursement for debris removal due to Katrina and Rita. Community associations will be able to apply for reimbursement to clear their roads. While that doesn't help all the victims of previous disasters, we hope that it indicates FEMA's direction on assisting community assocations and all citizens recover from disasters.
CAI is continuing to work on legislation that will make these rule changes permanent. You can read more about it at: http://www.caionline.org/news/detail.cfm?PRNumber=99100605
