[Cobo] Possible Federal Reimbursement on Katrina Relief Efforts

[Mauck, Sheri]

The Oklahoma Civil Emergency Office conducted a meeting this week to
discuss possible FEMA reimbursement for expenses incurred as a result of
Hurricane Katrina disaster relief efforts.  The federal disaster
declaration is unprecedented as it provides for 100% reimbursement for
qualifying expenditures.  In recent disaster declarations the
reimbursement ratio has normally been 75% federal reimbursement for
every state dollar expended.

 

As many unanswered questions remain, both at the state and federal
levels, reimbursement isn't being guaranteed for Higher Education
related expenses.  To date FEMA has not ruled that tuition waivers are
an eligible reimbursement; however, we have filed the necessary
application for public assistance reimbursement as required for a FEMA
determination on eligibility.  In addition, there are specific published
provisions for sheltering evacuees, including temporary housing, efforts
for which your institution may qualify for reimbursement.  The important
request at this time is to properly and thoroughly document all possible
reimbursable expenses.

 

It is expected that the State Regents' office will collect from each
institution a listing of specific documented expenses that will be
compiled and submitted for reimbursement.  If FEMA deems these
expenditures as reimbursable, the funds would flow back to your
institution.  We are asking that you begin to document all expenditures
you will be filing for potential reimbursement.  A collection form is
being drafted and will be circulated to you with the instructions as we
learn them.

 

Our office will continue to coordinate the disbursement of relevant
information as it is received.  Should you or your staff have specific
questions you would like to submit requesting guidance from FEMA or the
Oklahoma Civil Emergency Division, please send to smauck at osrhe.edu, and
we will strive to get an answer.  

 

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