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Report File
Date Issued
Submitting OIG
Department of Homeland Security OIG
Other Participating OIGs
Department of Homeland Security OIG
Agencies Reviewed/Investigated
Department of Homeland Security
Components
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Report Number
OIG-22-36
Report Description

We are issuing this management alert to advise the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that its Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Funeral Assistance Program operating procedures contradict FEMA’s previous interpretation of long-standing regulations for ineligible funeral expenses established in FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide (IAPPG). This interpretation of regulations for ineligible funeral expenses remains unchanged in FEMA Policy 104-21-0001 (COVID-19-specific policy).

Report Type
Audit
Special Projects
Pandemic
Agency Wide
Yes
Number of Recommendations
1
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0

Open Recommendations

This report has 1 open recommendations.
Recommendation Number Significant Recommendation Recommended Questioned Costs Recommended Funds for Better Use Additional Details
1 No $0 $0

We recommend that the Federal Emergency Management Agency Administratorimmediately issue modified COVID-19 Funeral Assistance operating proceduresthat align with the Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide provisions9 OIG requested relevant documentation during a November 16, 2021 meeting with FEMA onthis topic.www.oig.dhs.gov 7 OIG-22-36We recommend that the Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator immediately issue modified COVID-19 Funeral Assistance operating procedures that align with the Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide provisions on ineligible funeral assistance expenses and ensure all future cost reimbursements by FEMA in connection with the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program are necessary expenses associated with funeral services and/or burials.

Department of Homeland Security OIG

United States