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The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released its Fiscal Year 2024 Mission and Priorities Document (MPD). This important document helps guide CMS, the Quality, Safety & Oversight Group (QSOG), the Survey & Operations Group (SOG), and State Survey Agencies (SAs) to ensure healthcare providers meet safety and quality standards. For healthcare providers and public sector planners, staying up to date on CMS priorities is key to maintaining compliance and being prepared for changes.

Here’s a breakdown of the main points from the FY2024 MPD and how they might affect your healthcare operations.

What is the MPD?

The MPD outlines how CMS will prioritize its efforts during the upcoming fiscal year. It includes updates on regulations, new programs, budget changes, and legal requirements, all designed to make sure people receiving care through Medicare or Medicaid get safe, high-quality treatment.

The FY2024 MPD is divided into three main sections:

• New program updates since last year.
• Ongoing policies that remain constant.
• Priority tiers for survey and certification activities.

Key Areas of Focus

CMS organizes its survey activities into four priority tiers, helping Survey Agencies (SAs) focus on the most critical areas of patient care. These tiers allow CMS to allocate resources effectively.

The Four Priority Tiers:

• Tier 1: Providers with immediate access-to-care issues.
• Tier 2: Providers with Medicare applications pending for more than 150 days.
• Tier 3: All other initial certifications not in Tiers 1 or 2.
• Tier 4: Less urgent activities.

One of the significant changes this year is that initial surveys for home health and hospice providers, previously categorized under Tier 4, have been moved up to Tier 1 or 2 due to the increased demand for these services.

Updates for Home Health and Hospice Providers

Home health and hospice care are receiving extra attention in FY2024. CMS has introduced stricter enforcement measures, such as fines, suspension of payments for new patients, and management changes at facilities that fail to meet quality standards. These updates will be included in the State Operations Manual (SOM) Chapter 10, although the exact release date has not been announced yet.

Hospice care is also getting special attention through the new Hospice Special Focus Program (SFP). This program targets underperforming hospice providers, pushing for improved care standards.

Post-Pandemic Healthcare Guidance

With the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) in May 2023, CMS is returning to pre-pandemic practices. This includes ending staff vaccination requirements and resuming standard survey and certification activities. One of the main goals for FY2024 is addressing the backlog of surveys delayed by the pandemic, especially those related to patient harm.

Long-Term Care and End-Stage Renal Disease Updates

CMS continues its efforts to improve care in nursing homes and long-term care facilities by streamlining the complaint investigation process. CMS will also revise how dialysis services are handled in nursing homes, paying closer attention to facilities with poor clinical outcomes. This includes:

• New investigation policies for complaints and facility-reported incidents.
• Streamlining the long-term care (LTC) survey process to enhance efficiency.
  

For end-stage renal disease (ESRD) facilities, CMS has revised its survey processes to improve oversight of dialysis services provided in nursing homes. CMS-approved accrediting organizations will now handle the Tier 2 surveys for ESRD facilities with poor clinical outcomes, alleviating the burden on state agencies. CMS is also paying closer attention to dialysis services provided in nursing homes. In FY2024, CMS-approved accrediting organizations will conduct surveys of facilities with poor clinical outcomes, based on set measures.

Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers

Rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers will see changes in how CMS assesses their services. These revisions focus on outpatient services rather than primary care and respond to the way the U.S. Census has redefined urban areas. The most recent revisions will impact how these healthcare centers are classified and how they qualify for Medicare funding.

Training and Education for Surveyors

Surveyors responsible for inspecting healthcare facilities will undergo competency assessments as part of the surveyor skills review. For FY 2024, this review will focus on several provider types, including hospitals, home health agencies, and long-term care facilities.
This ongoing education aims to ensure that surveyors are equipped to handle the complexities of modern healthcare and enforce CMS’s strict safety and quality standards.

Funding and Resources

Since 2015, CMS’s Survey & Certification (S&C) program has not received additional funding despite an increased workload. With more patient complaints and no budget growth, CMS must carefully prioritize how it uses its resources. The top three priorities for FY2024 are:

1. Investigating patient complaints that pose immediate safety concerns.
2. Surveying and certifying critical healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes, home health agencies, and hospices.
3. Certifying other facilities as time and budget allow.

How BOLDplanning Can Help

Navigating these changing priorities and ensuring compliance can be challenging for healthcare organizations, especially with the added pressure of limited resources. BOLDplanning’s expertise in continuity planning can help healthcare providers stay prepared. Whether it’s developing updated plans to meet new CMS requirements or managing the impact of survey backlogs, BOLDplanning’s solutions offer the tools you need to keep operations running smoothly and maintain compliance.

Conclusion

Understanding CMS’s FY2024 Mission and Priorities Document is crucial for healthcare providers working with Medicare and Medicaid. The document outlines key changes in survey priorities, enforcement policies, and certification processes. By staying informed and adapting to these updates, healthcare organizations can continue delivering high-quality care while ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. And with the right planning and preparation, you can meet these challenges head-on.

BOLDplanning is here to help guide your organization through these updates, ensuring that your continuity plans are aligned with CMS’s evolving expectations.

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When disaster strikes, the speed and efficiency of a response can mean the difference between life and death. This is where an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) becomes crucial. EOPs provide a structured framework that helps organizations and governments respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies. In this blog, we’ll explore the core components of an EOP and discuss how they contribute to a seamless emergency response.

What is an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)?

An Emergency Operations Plan is a detailed document that outlines the actions an organization or government should take during an emergency. It is designed to ensure that all necessary resources, personnel, and procedures are in place before a crisis occurs. This planning process helps to reduce the chaos and confusion that often accompany disasters, enabling a more organized and effective response.

EOPs are essential for a wide range of emergencies, including natural disasters (like hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods), technological incidents (such as cyberattacks), and human-caused events (like terrorism). According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), over 90% of all presidential disaster declarations between 2000 and 2019 were related to natural disasters. With this in mind, having a well-crafted EOP is critical for public safety and continuity of operations.

Core Components of an Effective EOP

1. Base Plan: The base plan of an EOP outlines the general strategies and policies that guide the emergency response. This section typically includes an overview of the emergency response organization, the roles and responsibilities of key personnel, and the process for activating the plan. It also addresses the legal and financial authorities that govern emergency operations.

   The base plan serves as the foundation upon which all other components of the EOP are built. It ensures that everyone involved in the response effort understands their role and the overall approach to managing the incident.

2. Functional Annexes: Functional annexes are specific plans that address particular functions that may be needed during an emergency. These functions include communications, resource management, evacuation, sheltering, and public health. Each annex provides detailed guidance on how to carry out these functions in various types of emergencies.

   For example, the communications annex would detail how to maintain communication channels during a crisis, including protocols for internal and external communication. According to a study by the Disaster Recovery Journal, 43% of companies that experience a significant communication failure during a disaster never reopen. This highlights the importance of having a robust communications plan within your EOP.

3. Hazard-Specific Appendices: While the base plan and functional annexes provide a broad framework for emergency response, hazard-specific appendices focus on the unique challenges posed by different types of disasters. These appendices offer tailored guidance for responding to particular hazards, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or chemical spills.

   Each appendix identifies the specific risks associated with the hazard, the potential impacts on the community, and the specialized response strategies required. For instance, the earthquake appendix might include procedures for conducting rapid damage assessments and coordinating search and rescue operations. By addressing the unique aspects of each hazard, these appendices ensure that the EOP is adaptable and effective in a wide range of scenarios.

The Role of an EOP in Effective Emergency Response

An EOP plays a critical role in ensuring a coordinated and effective response to emergencies. By providing a clear and structured plan, it helps to reduce uncertainty and enables swift decision-making. This can save lives, protect property, and minimize the long-term impacts of disasters.

Moreover, an EOP facilitates collaboration between different agencies and organizations. During a disaster, multiple entities—including local governments, federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector partners—must work together to manage the response. An EOP ensures that these efforts are coordinated and that all parties are working towards the same goals.

How BOLDplanning Can Help

Developing a comprehensive EOP is a complex process that requires expertise and careful consideration of various factors. This is where BOLDplanning comes in. As a leader in public sector planning, BOLDplanning specializes in helping organizations create, update, and maintain their Emergency Operations Plans.

BOLDplanning offers a range of services, including plan development, training, and exercises, to ensure that your organization is fully prepared for any emergency. Their team of experts works closely with clients to tailor EOPs to their specific needs, ensuring that the plans are both practical and effective.

In a world where disasters can strike at any time, having a well-prepared EOP is not just a good idea—it’s essential. BOLDplanning is here to help you navigate the complexities of emergency operations planning, ensuring that your organization is ready to respond when it matters most.

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Introduction to FFRMS

In a significant move to bolster community resilience against flooding, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has published a Final Rule to implement the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). This forward-thinking standard is designed to address the increasing flood risks exacerbated by climate change, helping to protect communities, lives, and property.

Why FFRMS Matters

Flooding has repeatedly threatened communities across the United States, revealing the inadequacy of traditional flood management strategies based on historical data. The FFRMS addresses this by incorporating the best available science to account for both current and future flood risks. This proactive approach ensures that taxpayer-funded projects are more resilient, safeguarding federal investments and minimizing the damage and losses caused by floods.

Key Benefits of the FFRMS

1. Enhanced Resilience: FFRMS mandates the use of advanced science to predict and prepare for future flood conditions, increasing the resilience of FEMA-funded projects. This includes new constructions, substantial improvements, or repairs to significant damage.

2. Financial Support: FEMA will cover a significant portion of the costs to implement FFRMS, often 75% or more, easing the financial burden on local communities and ensuring the standard’s wide adoption.

3. Long-Term Savings: Incorporating flood resilience measures, such as elevating buildings, into project designs, adds minimal costs (less than 2%) but offers substantial long-term savings by preventing repetitive flood damage.

Leadership Perspectives

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas highlights the increasing threat of flooding due to climate change and emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell adds that the FFRMS will help end cycles of repetitive loss and enhance community safety. National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi underscores the broader climate resilience efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration, aimed at protecting communities before disasters strike.

Implementation and Impact

The FFRMS will apply to various FEMA-funded actions, including:

• New constructions
• Substantial improvements
• Repairs to substantial damage
• Hazard Mitigation Assistance projects

This comprehensive approach ensures that projects like fire and police stations, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure are built to withstand future flood risks. The standard also encourages the use of nature-based solutions, preserving floodplain benefits like water storage and soil enrichment.

Minimal Implementation Costs

While the FFRMS requires certain flood resilience measures, the costs are minimal compared to the long-term benefits. For instance, adding two feet of elevation to a building design only increases project costs by an average of 1.91%. On a $1 million project with a 75% federal cost share, the additional cost to the applicant is approximately $4,775, a small price for significant future savings.

Conclusion

The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard is a critical step in building a more resilient future. By anticipating and preparing for future flood risks, FEMA ensures that communities are better protected, and taxpayer dollars are wisely invested. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, the FFRMS represents a proactive, science-based approach to safeguarding lives and property across the United States.

For more information on the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and how it impacts your community, visit FEMA’s official website. Stay informed and take proactive steps to enhance your community’s resilience against future flood risks.

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FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has announced the third round of Swift Current funding, releasing $300 million through the recent Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This initiative is aimed at helping National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders across the United States enhance their resilience to flooding. The total funding for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program’s Swift Current opportunity now stands at $660 million, bolstered by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

President Biden has secured over $50 billion for climate resilience and adaptation through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. These funds are part of a broader National Climate Resilience Framework, which promotes locally tailored, community-driven climate resilience strategies. FEMA’s Swift Current initiative, though only two years old, has already had a significant impact on flood-affected communities nationwide.

“Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re able to offer another $300 million to improve resilience in recently flooded communities,” said Administrator Criswell. She encouraged states, tribes, territories, and localities to take flood threats seriously and to consider utilizing Swift Current funding to better prepare for future flooding events.

Swift Current’s Objective

Swift Current aims to expedite the allocation of Flood Mitigation Assistance funding to states, territories, the District of Columbia, and federally recognized tribal governments. This program seeks to break the cycle of damage and repair by addressing repetitively or substantially flood-damaged properties. Unlike the annual Flood Mitigation Assistance grant cycle, Swift Current provides resiliency funds following a major disaster declaration due to a flood-related event, with the goal of reducing future flood risks.

Eligible projects for this funding include property acquisition and demolition, elevation, and relocation. To qualify, buildings must be insured through the NFIP and have a history of repetitive or substantial flood damage. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates $3.5 billion for Flood Mitigation Assistance grants over five years, extending through fiscal year 2026. This funding is designed to help communities mitigate flood damage and comply with local requirements.

Swift Current also advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments reach disadvantaged communities. These communities often face significant challenges and are overburdened by pollution.

Application and Eligibility

The first Swift Current announcement in 2022 made $60 million available to Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania after Hurricane Ida. In 2023, FEMA expanded the program, making $300 million available to 19 states and one Tribal Nation.

The current round of funding follows similar criteria to the 2023 opportunity, increasing the likelihood of eligibility. States, territories, the District of Columbia, and federally recognized tribal governments are eligible if they meet two criteria:

1. They receive a major disaster declaration for a flood-related event between June 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025.
2. They meet one of the following conditions:
   • At least $1 million in NFIP flood insurance claims were paid in the 12 months prior to the disaster declaration date.
   • 500 or more NFIP flood insurance claims submitted in the declared flood-related event.
   • The applicant is a U.S. territory or a federally recognized tribal government applying directly to FEMA.

FEMA will give special consideration to states, territories, and federally recognized tribal governments that receive a major disaster declaration for a flood-related event within the specified period but do not meet the additional conditions listed above. For detailed information and requirements, applicants should refer to the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

The application window opens on June 1, 2024, and the last eligible disaster declaration date is May 31, 2025. The funding opportunity is available on Grants.gov, and all applications must be submitted through FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and late submissions will not be considered.

For more information, interested NFIP policyholders should contact their state or territory hazard mitigation officer.

Enhance Your Disaster Planning with Preparis and BOLDPlanning

Navigating the complexities of disaster planning and funding applications can be challenging. Preparis and BOLDPlanning offer comprehensive solutions to help public and private sector entities enhance their disaster preparedness and resilience. Our expert teams can guide you through the application process for programs like Swift Current, ensuring you maximize available resources to protect your community against future flooding events.

Don’t wait—prepare today to safeguard your tomorrow. Contact us to learn how we can support your disaster planning efforts.

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In a significant move toward bolstering emergency response capabilities nationwide, FEMA has announced the availability of over $103 million through the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Grant Program for the fiscal year 2024. This grant initiative aims to equip, upgrade, or construct emergency operations centers across eligible state, local, and tribal governments, as mandated by Congress. With disaster preparedness at the forefront, these funds serve as a vital resource for communities grappling with various hazards.

The Crucial Role of Emergency Operations Centers

Emergency operations centers serve as the nerve center during times of crisis, facilitating coordination and response efforts essential for community resilience. Pamela Williams, Assistant Administrator of the Grants Program Directorate, underscores their significance, stating, “Emergency operations centers are the heart of disaster preparedness and response.” These centers play a pivotal role in orchestrating response strategies, ensuring seamless communication, and mitigating the impact of disasters.

How BOLDplanning Can Aid in Public Sector Planning

In light of FEMA’s funding announcement, it’s imperative for eligible entities to streamline their planning processes to maximize the utilization of available resources. BOLDplanning offers tailored solutions to enhance public sector planning, aligning with FEMA’s objectives of fostering preparedness and resilience. Through comprehensive planning software and consultancy services, BOLDplanning assists organizations in developing robust emergency operations plans, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

With the application deadline set for 5 p.m. ET on June 7, 2024, now is the time for eligible State Administrative Agencies and Federally Recognized Tribes to take proactive steps in securing funding for critical emergency operations center projects. By leveraging FEMA’s grant opportunities and partnering with BOLDplanning, communities can fortify their disaster preparedness efforts, thereby safeguarding lives and infrastructure against unforeseen emergencies. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your emergency response capabilities and bolster community resilience. Apply now and pave the way for a safer tomorrow.

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In an effort to bolster community resilience and fortify fire prevention efforts nationwide, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced the initiation of the application process for the Fiscal Year 2023 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program. With a substantial $36 million allocated for this initiative, FEMA aims to empower local fire departments and organizations to enhance their fire prevention programs and pioneer scientific research to improve firefighter safety, health, and overall well-being.

Empowering Communities Through FP&S Grants

The FP&S grant program has historically played a pivotal role in supporting critical research and outreach endeavors that save lives and mitigate fire-related risks across diverse communities. One notable example is the ongoing decades-long study conducted by the University of Arizona, which focuses on identifying occupational hazards faced by firefighters and devising strategies to mitigate cancer risks among this high-risk population. Additionally, initiatives like the American Red Cross’ Home Fire Campaign have significantly contributed to raising awareness about fire safety and installing essential smoke alarms in households, thereby reducing fire-related fatalities.

Furthermore, organizations such as The Institution of Fire Engineers in Crofton, Maryland, have spearheaded community risk-reduction programs like Vision 20/20. This program identifies, prioritizes, and addresses fire risks comprehensively, underscoring the significance of proactive measures in safeguarding communities against potential fire emergencies.

Leading Government Continuity Planning with BOLDplanning and Preparis

In the realm of government continuity planning and hazard mitigation, strategic partnerships with industry leaders like BOLDplanning and Preparis can significantly enhance preparedness efforts. BOLDplanning offers comprehensive continuity planning solutions tailored to the unique needs of government agencies, enabling them to develop robust strategies for maintaining essential services during and after unforeseen events such as fires. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and expert insights, BOLDplanning equips organizations with the tools needed to navigate complex challenges and ensure uninterrupted operations.

Similarly, Preparis specializes in providing integrated emergency preparedness and response solutions, equipping government entities with the resources and knowledge necessary to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. Through innovative training programs, communication tools, and risk assessment services, Preparis empowers governments to proactively address fire hazards and other emergencies, fostering a culture of safety and readiness within communities.

Conclusion

The availability of $36 million in FP&S grants signifies a significant opportunity for stakeholders to bolster their fire prevention efforts and foster resilience against fire-related hazards. By harnessing the expertise of industry leaders and leveraging innovative solutions, communities can take proactive steps toward mitigating risks and safeguarding lives and property from the devastating impact of fires. 

Interested parties are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 5 p.m. ET, to ensure their eligibility for this critical funding opportunity. The FY 2023 FP&S Notice of Funding Opportunity and technical assistance documents for this program are available at www.grants.gov and on the FEMA website. 

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In a recent announcement, FEMA revealed its 2024 traditional reinsurance placement for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), highlighting its commitment to managing catastrophic flood losses. This move signifies the agency’s ongoing efforts to transfer financial risk to the private reinsurance market. However, in order to mitigate the impact of natural disasters effectively, the public sector and government entities need comprehensive disaster plans. This is where BOLDplanning comes into play, offering a robust solution to help organizations create and implement effective disaster plans.

FEMA’s Reinsurance Placement

Under the 2024 reinsurance placement, FEMA has transferred an additional $619.5 million of the NFIP’s financial risk to the private reinsurance market. This agreement provides coverage for losses above $7 billion arising from a single qualifying flood event. The coverage is structured to cover specific percentages of losses within different ranges, ensuring comprehensive protection. Combined with previous reinsurance placements, FEMA has successfully transferred $1.9 billion of the NFIP’s flood risk to the private sector.

The Role of Reinsurance

Reinsurance serves as a vital financial risk management tool for both private insurance companies and public entities. In the case of FEMA and the NFIP, reinsurance companies cover a portion of the program’s losses in the event of a qualifying catastrophic flood. This enables FEMA to pay flood insurance claims without relying on borrowing from the U.S. Treasury. By leveraging reinsurance, FEMA enhances its ability to respond to flood-related disasters effectively.

BOLDplanning: Creating Effective Disaster Plans

While reinsurance plays a crucial role in managing financial risk, it is equally important for public sector and government entities to have robust disaster plans in place. This is where BOLDplanning, a leading provider of comprehensive emergency management solutions, comes into the picture. BOLDplanning offers a user-friendly platform that enables organizations to create, implement, and maintain effective disaster plans.

BOLDplanning’s solution empowers public sector and government entities to assess their vulnerabilities, identify potential risks, and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of disasters. The platform provides a centralized hub for collaboration, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in the planning process. With BOLDplanning, organizations can create customized plans tailored to their specific needs, incorporating relevant data and statistics to enhance preparedness.

The Benefits of BOLDplanning

By utilizing BOLDplanning’s solution, public sector and government entities can achieve several key benefits. Firstly, the platform streamlines the planning process, saving valuable time and resources. Secondly, it promotes collaboration and communication among stakeholders, fostering a unified approach to disaster preparedness. Additionally, BOLDplanning’s solution enables organizations to conduct risk assessments, identify critical infrastructure, and develop response and recovery strategies.

Conclusion

As FEMA continues to transfer financial risk to the private reinsurance market, it is crucial for public sector and government entities to have effective disaster plans in place. BOLDplanning offers a comprehensive solution that empowers organizations to create, implement, and maintain robust disaster plans. By leveraging BOLDplanning’s platform, public sector and government entities can enhance their preparedness, mitigate the impact of disasters, and ensure the safety and well-being of their communities. To learn more about BOLDplanning and its offerings, visit the NFIP Reinsurance Program webpage on FEMA.gov.

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2024, heralded by FEMA as the “Year of Resilience,” is now well underway. As such, it is unsurprising that the agency has made a second funding opportunity available through its Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) — and it’s a substantial one. In fact, at $150 million, it is triple the amount previously expected to be available through this round of funding.   

The Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF program is authorized under Section 205 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. It is the first Hazard Mitigation Assistance program to provide capitalization grants to eligible entities for revolving loan funds. Eligible entities include any state in the U.S., territories, the District of Columbia, and federally recognized tribal nations having received a major disaster declaration.   

The program intends to provide an opportunity for these entities to make low-interest loans to local governments most in need of financial assistance, including low-income geographic areas and underserved communities. Funds are offered to support transformational projects that reduce risk to multiple hazards, support adaptation to future conditions, and equitably reduce the impact of all disasters nationwide. This includes those fueled by the intensifying effects of climate change.   

Interestingly, the Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF is the only FEMA grant program under which extreme heat is explicitly eligible. According to the agency, the program allows applicants to use loan funds for projects or activities that reduce the impacts of drought and prolonged intense heat. Further, FEMA will not require applicants to submit a benefit-cost analysis (BCA) for projects.   

However, it is important to note that the agency will not be selecting projects or awarding loans. Its goal is to remove barriers and increase equitable access to this funding source to achieve even more mitigation projects locally, thereby increasing the nation’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change.   

Requirements for project funding through the revolving loans include:   

1. Increasing the resilience of major economic sectors or critical national infrastructure and reducing the risk of harm to natural and built infrastructure.   
2. Involving a partnership between two or more eligible entities.  
3. Account for the regional impacts of hazards.   

Eligible project types under this program include activities that mitigate the impact of natural hazards, zoning and land use planning changes, and adoption and enforcement of modern building codes, among others. Local government may also use loans to satisfy the non-federal cost-share requirements for other FEMA grant programs.   

The funding notice pertaining to the Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF is available online at Grants.gov. Eligible entities must apply for funding using the Non-Disaster (N.D.) Grants Management System (N.D. Grants). The application period opens on February 1, 2024. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. ET, April 30, 2024.  

Given the tripled amount of funds available for the second round of this RLF and the importance of hazard mitigation, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. The low-interest funds your state, local, tribal, or territorial government (SLTT) secures now will go a long way toward “safeguarding it tomorrow.” As proclaimed by FEMA, make 2024 your SLTT government’s Year of Resilience.   

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Every year since 1953, FEMA has issued various declarations in response to natural and manmade disasters. Last year, 2023, was no different, except the number increased sharply from the previous year. This was especially true for major disaster declarations, which climbed to over 70 — versus 47 in 2022 — reinforcing the need for emergency preparedness in the year(s) ahead.  

Most major disaster declarations issued in 2023 were associated with floods (21) and severe storms (31). Among the latest were DR-4752-UT (Utah Flooding) and DR-4751-TN (Tennessee Severe Storms and Tornadoes), declared in December. The latter of these declarations remains in effect today as people across Middle Tennessee, the home of BOLDplanning, continue to work through the recovery process.  

Another major disaster declaration in 2023 pertained to fire, namely the Hawaii Wildfires, DR-4724-HI, which was declared in August. The fires, powered by high winds, prompted evacuations on the island of Maui and left the town of Lahaina in ruins. The fires also claimed the lives of 100 people (as of November 14, 2023), according to Maui police.  

According to FEMA data, there were also seven major disaster declarations for winter storm events in 2023 and two snowstorms. On the opposite end of the weather spectrum were three major disaster declarations for tropical storms and four for hurricanes. These tropical weather events were Tropical Storm (and later) Hurricane Hilary, which impacted California and the La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians; Hurricane Idalia in Georgia; and Typhoon Mawar in the U.S. territory of Guam.  

As most know, major disaster declarations provide a wide range of federal assistance programs for individuals and public infrastructure, including funds for emergency and permanent work. This includes hazard mitigation assistance for actions to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards. 

In addition to the 70+ major disaster declarations issued by FEMA in 2023, there were also 13 emergency declarations (up from 10 in 2022). Emergency declarations supplement state and local efforts in providing emergency services, such as protecting lives, property, public health, and safety or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Of the 13 emergency declarations in 2023, three were related to tropical storms, three to hurricanes, one to flooding, two to typhoons, one to seawater intrusion, and two to severe winter storms (including flooding, landslides, and mudslides in California). Interestingly, one emergency declaration was issued for elevated copper and lead levels in the U.S. Virgin Islands water supply in October (EM-3603-VI). It remains in effect today.  

Also of particular interest is that May 11, 2023, marked the official end of the COVID-19 national emergency declaration and major disaster declarations for state, tribal, and territorial governments. The President issued these on March 13, 2020, under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the “Stafford Act”) and are the longest-running ones in FEMA’s history.  

While no one can predict the future, the increase in FEMA declarations in 2023 certainly supports the need for emergency preparedness in 2024 and beyond.  

If this involves reviewing or advancing your organization’s emergency, continuity, or hazard mitigation planning capabilities, consider BOLDplanning. It’s the solution of choice for more than 10,000 organizational plans. Email [email protected] to learn more today.  

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FEMA recently published its 12th annual National Preparedness Report (NPR), a comprehensive review of the nation’s current disaster risk and capability landscape. The report details the progress made toward achieving the National Preparedness Goal (NPG) by December 31, 2022. The NPG sets the standard for overall community preparedness, encompassing readiness for various disasters and emergencies. The NPG, as you know, defines what it means for the whole community to be prepared for all types of disasters and emergencies. 

As explained by FEMA, the 2023 NPR provides a data-driven picture of national preparedness and emergency management trends and includes recommendations for closing remaining gaps. It addresses the five mission areas of the NPG – prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery – as well as the core capabilities intended to assist everyone who has a role in achieving all of the elements of the goal. 

Specifically, the 2023 NPR includes focused discussions on four core capabilities: 

1. Fire Management and Suppression;
2. Logistics and Supply Chain Management;
3. Public Health, Healthcare, and Emergency Medical Services; and 
4. Long-term Vulnerability Reduction. 

The new report also highlights the reality of rising costs and the frequency and severity of disasters due to climate change. The reason is the rise in the overwhelming number and severity of disasters in 2022. These resulted in the loss of $165 billion with 47 major climate-disaster declarations. 

According to the 2023 NPR, there has also been a shift in the types of hazards communities are increasingly concerned about. Topping the list as “the two most stressing threat and hazard types for their [preparedness] capabilities” are cyberattacks and pandemics.

As in years past, the annual report offers all levels of government, tribes, the private and nonprofit sectors, and the public practical insights into preparedness that support decisions about program priorities, resource allocations, and actions that can create more resilient communities. It’s an interesting read and could prove highly beneficial to those looking to make improvements in the year ahead. 

To download the 2023 National Preparedness Report, visit https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_2023-npr.pdf. 

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