Oversight of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Response to the Baton Rouge Flood Disaster

PURPOSE:

• To examine the extent of damage to the region, oversee the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) recovery efforts and identify areas for improvement.

BACKGROUND:

• Between August 12 and August 13, 2016, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and surrounding parishes experienced rainfalls up to 31 inches, which resulted in disastrous levels of flooding and 13 deaths.
• President Barack Obama issued a Major Disaster Declaration on August 14, 2016 for 20 parishes in South Louisiana.
  • Over 128,000 households have registered for FEMA assistance.
  • Impacted households may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA ranging from temporary rental costs, repairs to homes, and costs toward replacement homes.