FINAL BILL REPORT

                  ESJM 8013

                     As Passed Legislature

Brief Description:  Requesting federal assistance for areas of Washington that received record rainfall this winter.

Sponsors:  Senators T. Sheldon, Rasmussen, Horn and Sheahan.

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Background:  The Emergency Management Division in the Military Department, in cooperation with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local governments, administers state and local disaster recovery efforts.  Once the President declares a disaster, the state becomes eligible for federal assistance under programs administered by FEMA.  To receive federal assistance under one of these programs, 25 percent matching funds are usually required.

Between the months of November 1998 and February 1999, some parts of Washington experienced record rainfall.  The flooding and mudslides resulting from this rainfall have caused substantial damage to homes, roads and other public infrastructure.

Summary:  The Legislature requests that, if the Governor requests federal disaster assistance, the President and FEMA will respond favorably to the request and provide the maximum available disaster recovery support.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate 45 0

House     95 0