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ARTICLE · 01 APRIL 2026

Blackhawk GHAD Wins Important FEMA Arbitration On Public Assistance Eligibility

Fennemore Craig, P.C.
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Good news for Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs) across California—Blackhawk GHAD has won an important arbitration against FEMA.

United StatesLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Patricia E. Curtin
Patricia E. Curtin
Kurt A. Franklin
Kurt A. Franklin

Good news for Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs) across California—Blackhawk GHAD has won an important arbitration against FEMA.

In a February 24, 2026, decision, the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (Board) ruled that Blackhawk GHAD does have the legal authority under California law to perform disaster-related work on private property, making it eligible to seek FEMA Public Assistance for permanent repairs and debris removal. This directly overturns FEMA’s long-standing position that GHADs lack the necessary legal responsibility—an issue that has affected funding efforts for years.

The Board decision confirms that:

  • GHADs, as public entities, can act on private property to address geologic hazards

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