U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Washington, DC 20472
www.fema.gov
US&R PROGRAM DIRECTIVE – 2021-006
May 27, 2021
FOR: National Urban Search & Rescue Response System
Task Force Representatives
FROM: Fred Endrikat, Chief
Urban Search and Rescue Branch
SUBJECT: US&R Program Directive 20 21-006 – Blanket Extension of FY 2018 Readiness Cooperative Agreement
Implementation Date: May 27, 2021; Expiration Date: September 30, 2022 The purpose of this Program Directive (PD) is to distribute specific guidance to the National Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Response System (the System) on a blanket one -year extension to the FY2018 Readiness Cooperative Agreements (including the supplemental funding). This action is allowable under Section H of the 2018 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and Section IV (Approvals) of the 2018 Statement of Work and has been approved by the US&R Branch and the Grants Programs Directorate (GPD).
Due to the extenuating circumstances resulting from the Nation’s response to the COVID 19 Pandemic, System resources have experienced an overwhelming number of delays accepting and obligating funds with an unpredictable timeline going forward . Delays in procurement, inability to train, cancelled meetings, and an above-average 2020 response season are several examples.
This Period of Performance (POP) extension is intended to provide sufficient time for each System task force to utilize their 2018 funding as directed.
This Program Directive serves to modify the 2018 NOFO and provide an expedited submission, review, and decision process for grant recipient Period of Performance (POP) extension requests.
To finalize the extension process, each System task force must submit a request for extension in the ND Grants system. The deadline to submit an extension request is June 30, 2021. No further extensions will be given. A copy of this PD should be attached to the request to serve as a justification for the amendment . Once approved, each task force POP for the FY 2018 CA will change to 09/01/2018 – 08/31/2022. Should any System task force complete their work plan prior to the end of the FY 2018 POP, they can closeout the FY2018 Cooperative Agreement early.
All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in full force and effect. System task forces should list this blanket POP extension in their performance reports / closeout documents and keep a copy in their official grant file.
US&R Program Directive 2021- 006 – Blanket Extension of FY 2018 Readiness Cooperative Agreement
www.fema.gov
Any questions or concerns related to this PD should be directed to Buddy Ey of the US&R Branch at: [email protected].
cc:
US&R Strategic Group
US&R Advisory Group
US&R Branch Staff
US&R Grant Managers
FEMA Grants Program Directorate
FEMA Regional/Federal/International ESF #9 Representatives