Which federal act authorizes federal disaster assistance to supplement state and local response efforts?

• A. Disaster Assistance Act
• B. Stafford Act
• C. Federal Disaster Response Act
• D. National Emergency Act

Answer: (B)

This question tests understanding of which law gives the federal government authority to provide disaster assistance that supplements state and local response efforts. The Stafford Act—the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act—provides that authority. It authorizes the President to declare major disasters or emergencies, triggering federal assistance administered by FEMA to support state and local responders. The act outlines the kinds of help available, including Public Assistance to repair infrastructure, Individual Assistance for people and households, and Hazard Mitigation to reduce future risks. In practice, this framework lets federal resources and coordination come in when local resources are overwhelmed, working in partnership with state and local authorities.

Other named acts do not establish this federal-disaster-assistance framework. The National Emergencies Act concerns presidential emergency powers more broadly, not the standard disaster-relief programs, and the other options do not correspond to enacted laws that authorize this kind of disaster assistance.