CT SB00338

Amends Connecticut civil preparedness and emergency services statutes effective October 1, 2012, to clarify definitions and authorities related to disaster response and emergency management.

Adds "of the United States" to references to the President in definitions of "major disaster" and "emergency" to clarify federal authority under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Authorizes the Governor to apply for federal grants and loans on behalf of political subdivisions suffering substantial revenue losses from disasters, with loan amounts capped at 25 percent of the affected subdivision's annual operating budget.

Grants the Governor authority to clear debris and wreckage from public and private property during declared disasters with property owner authorization and indemnification agreements.

Authorizes the Governor to provide financial assistance grants to individuals and families affected by federally-declared disasters, up to the maximum amount established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and establishes criminal penalties (fine up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment up to one year) for fraudulent applications.