Use of Agency Property
Federal personal property, like excess government equipment and supplies, can be utilized for disaster relief as directed by the President or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This can include items like vehicles, office equipment, medical supplies, communication devices, generators, and specialized tools depending on the disaster situation. See the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended by Public Law 106-390, October 30, 2000 and 44 CFR 206.5.
In the event of an emergency, the General Services Administration (GSA) requests authorization from FEMA to “convey, lend, or donate” excess or surplus federal personal property to state and local organizations involved in disaster assistance and relief efforts under the provisions of the Stafford Act. This authority gives GSA the flexibility to provide these assets without screening for other federal or donation requests; allowing the expeditious use of property in the most affected areas.
Transfer of Excess Property
Agencies may transfer excess personal property to other federal agencies authorized to provide emergency services. See 41 CFR 102-36. Agencies may transfer computers and research equipment directly to an educational institution to conduct technical and scientific education and research activities (15 USC 3710). Agencies may transfer computers directly to pre-K through 12th grade schools and educational programs through the Computers for Learning Program (EO 12999 and 41 CFR 102-36.475).
Donation of Surplus Property
Agency personal property may be donated to State Agencies for Surplus Property(SASPs) after GSA completes federal excess screening and after GSA directs the property to the appropriate state activity. Personal property must first be reported to GSA for federal excess screening. Federal excess screening may be expedited. Excess personal property becomes available for donation after GSA has determined the personal property to be surplus. See 41 CFR 102-37.30.
Loans to State and Local governments
Agencies may loan personal property to state and local governments with or without compensation and prior to reporting it as excess to GSA for an emergency or disaster situation. See 41 CFR 102-36.370. If the loan involves personal property that has already been reported as excess to GSA, agencies may withdraw the item from the disposal process subject to approval by GSA. Agencies are still accountable for this personal property and are responsible for developing agency-wide procedures for recovery of such personal property.
U.S. General Services Administration