The FASTER Act would authorize FEMA to award competitive, three-year grants to career, combination, and volunteer fire departments. The grants would support home safety and fall prevention programs for older adults, as well as quicker emergency access to homes. Allowable activities include installing grab bars and smoke detectors, removing tripping hazards, providing lock boxes, and helping responders access vital health information.
Older adults could receive home safety checks, minor home changes, fall prevention education, and referrals to community resources through funded programs. The grants would go to fire departments, not directly to individuals. Applicants would need to explain why they need federal support and how they plan to continue their programs after it ends.
The bill would authorize $1 million per year for fiscal years 2026–2028, $2 million per year for 2029–2031, $4 million per year for 2032–2034, and $7 million for 2035. FEMA could use up to 5% of each year's authorized amount for administrative costs. Federal grants could cover up to 75% of program costs in each of the first two years and 35% in the third year, with possible waivers for demonstrated economic hardship.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.