What is the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and How Can It Help Louisiana Residents?
The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is a federal program that provides funds to implement hazard mitigation measures following a Presidentially declared disaster. Hazard mitigation actions are any action taken to reduce or eliminate the long term risks to people and property from natural hazards. The goal of the HMGP is to reduce overall risk to the population and structures from future hazard events, while also reducing reliance on Federal funding in future disasters.
Who can participate in the HMGP Program?
Under the HMGP, eligible sub applicants such as Local Governments, Tribal Agencies, Private Nonprofits, State Agencies may apply for HMGP grants through the State. Federally recognized Tribal authorities apply through the State or independently (at their choice). Individuals must seek assistance and apply through their local Parish governing authority to the State.
What Projects are Funded Through HMGP Grants?
Eligible applicants develop project applications based on mitigation goals and strategies included in the local and state mitigation plans. For HMGP, program sub applicants will prioritize their projects and submit to GOHSEP. After GOHSEP reviews the sub application and submits to FEMA, FEMA will review and approve the sub applications to fund based on compliance with HMA guidance, eligibility of the proposed activity and cost, completeness of the application, cost-effectiveness, engineering feasibility, and eligibility and availability of non-federal cost share.
The program awards planning, project grants, and 5 Percent Initiative Projects. Specific project types eligible for HMGP assistance are identified on the program’s website.
How Can Louisiana Residents Apply for HMGP Grants?
Authorized sub applicants submit mitigation planning and project applications to GOHSEP. Applications MUST be submitted using the online system LouisianaHM.com. Accessing louisianahm.com requires a login. To access as a NEW USER, contact your GOHSEP Hazard Mitigation (HM) State Applicant Liaison (SAL) to request access. Federally recognized Tribal governments NOT applying through the State, contact FEMA directly.
HMGP applications must include the following information in order to be considered for review and funding. All applications submitted must include a scope of work, a work schedule, a detailed cost estimate, proof of cost-effectiveness and feasibility (projects) benefit-cost ratio greater than 1.0, documentation of EHP compliance (project), and assurance forms.
When is the Application Period?
HMGP sub applications must be submitted to FEMA within 12 months of the date of the Presidentially declared disaster. Once a declaration is received, notification will be sent to all eligible sub applicants. The review and award process can take several months, depending on the complexity of the project.
For more information on the HMGP program, please see the HMA Guidance available on FEMA’s website: http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance.