Overview
This section defines the fundamental terminology required to implement the Stafford Act's preferences for local organizations and individuals during federal disaster response activities. It establishes the criteria for what qualifies as an emergency response contract, who counts as a local firm, and how the geographic boundaries of a disaster area are determined.
Key Rules
- Emergency Response Contract: Defined as any contract with a private entity specifically supporting disaster assistance activities, including debris clearance, supply distribution, and reconstruction.
- Local Firm Criteria: To qualify as "local," a private organization or individual must either reside in or conduct the primary portion of their business within the officially designated disaster or emergency area.
- Geographic Scope: The boundaries of a disaster area are strictly limited to those identified in Presidential declarations or by the Department of Homeland Security, as published in the Federal Register and on the FEMA website.
Practical Implications
- Contracting Officers use these definitions to legally justify "Local Area Set-Asides," ensuring that recovery funds prioritize businesses within the impacted community.
- Firms seeking "local" status must be prepared to demonstrate that their primary place of business falls within the specific counties or jurisdictions listed in the formal FEMA declaration.