FEMA Regulations Freeze Lifted

The Association of State Flood Plain Managers shared the following news:

FEMA officials confirmed they have been given the green light by the Office of Management and Budget to publish “routine and frequent” National Flood Insurance Program notices and rules in the Federal Register. This includes items related to flood mapping and community eligibility.

According to ASFPM, the “routine and frequent” NFIP notices would apply to some Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs). However there are two programs of importance to floodplain managers that will be delayed: Community Assistance Program (CAP-SSSE) grants and pre-disaster Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants (PDM and FMA). The delay for both types of grants is due to the federal government being on a Continuing Resolution until the end of April. The availability of such funds will depend on congressional approval of a budget for the remainder of the year.