LPPC's Priorities on FEMA Reform
LPPC urges Congress to pass H.R. 4669 and strengthen it in three targeted ways:
- Reimburse prudent pre-positioning
Reasonable costs to stage crews, materials, and equipment before a forecasted disaster should be eligible for reimbursement, even if the storm shifts and those resources are not ultimately used. - Create a utility-focused FEMA unit
FEMA should have permanent utility expertise to improve consistency, reduce delays, and lower compliance costs for both FEMA and utility applicants. - Recognize utility standards in statute
Electric utilities should be able to rebuild damaged grid infrastructure to current utility standards, not just local building codes or outdated like-for-like designs.
What's at Stake
When FEMA processes delay reimbursement or force utilities to rebuild to outdated standards, costs fall on local customers and communities remain more vulnerable. FEMA reform can help public power utilities restore service faster, reduce repeat damage, protect customers, and preserve accountability for federal funds.
