Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was authorized in November 1988 under Section §404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act), 42 USC 5121, to provide grants to states, local governments and Indian tribal nations to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. In Ohio, FEMA allocates 20 percent of the total estimated federal grant assistance amount (excluding any associated administrative costs) provided under Sections 403, 407, 408, 410, 411, 416 and 701 of the Stafford Act (Individual Assistance and Public Assistance program costs) after a major disaster declaration.
The purpose of the program is to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters and to enable mitigation measures to be implemented during the immediate recovery from a disaster. 44 CFR Part 206, Subpart N -- Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, establishes criteria for state and local hazard mitigation project applications.
Hazard mitigation planning is an important aspect of a successful mitigation program. States and communities used the hazard mitigation planning process to set short and long-range mitigation goals and objectives. Hazard mitigation planning is a collaborative process whereby hazards affecting the community are identified, vulnerability to the hazards are assessed and consensus reached on how to minimize or eliminate the effects of these hazards. In recognition of the importance of planning, states with an approved enhanced State Mitigation Plan in affect at the time of the disaster declaration may receive additional HMGP funding.
- FEMA allocation amount for HMGP is a percentage calculated based on the total disaster assistance generated in response to a presidential declaration
- The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is administered by the state
- The program is voluntary and competitive
- The program is cost-share with the state and local community
- Projects must meet benefit-cost, environmental, and other federal, state and local criteria
- Projects must be in conformance with the State Mitigation Plan and Local Mitigation Plan approved under 44 CFR Part 201