CALIFORNIA FEMA Governor Brown’s office sent an official request for a major disaster declaration for the southern California wildfires on December 20, and the President was to evaluate this request with FEMA for a quick response.  The major disaster request, if approved, would make available individual assistance as well as public assistance, specifically the Individuals Continue reading

Despite the admonitions of senators from disaster-affected states, a third disaster aid supplemental installment was not attached to the continuing resolution Congress passed last night to keep the government open through January 19.  The House’s $81 billion disaster supplemental proposal is not looking at an easy ride in the Senate.  There are Democrats and Republicans Continue reading

The tax exemption for private activity bonds (PAB) survived the House and Senate Tax Reform bills.  The legislation preserves the 9% and 4% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (Housing Credit)—representing a significant victory for our housing advocates.  The bill does, however, lack the bipartisan reforms that would have improved the Housing Credit and its reach Continue reading

The big news:  Last night the House released its $81 billion disaster aid package.  According to Politico, it is the largest single funding request for natural calamities in U.S. history and nearly doubles the White House’s request for $44 billion. The expectation is that the bill (HR 4667 by Rep. Frelinghuysen of New Jersey) will be approved this Continue reading

Congress The conference committee created to resolve differences between the House and Senate bills met today. The DHRC sent a letter to the conference committee and all other congressional offices outlining the DHRC’s concerns about the possible impact on disaster recovery. The committee is expected to finish their work this week, with votes in the Continue reading