(a) It is the policy of FEMA to provide a means of assistance to States and their political subdivisions in their carrying out responsibilities to alleviate the suffering and damage from attack-related or natural disasters by:

(1) Providing contributions for personnel, equipment, materials and facilities that may be used in preparing for or responding to disasters, provided that the use of such funds for natural disasters is consistent with, contributes to, and does not detract from attack-related civil defense preparedness.

(2) Encouraging the development of comprehensive disaster preparedness and assistance plans, programs, capabilities, and organizations by the State and its political subdivisions.

(3) Assisting in achieving greater coordination of disaster preparation and response programs.

(4) Providing technical advice and guidance to States and their political subdivisions for organizing and preparing to meet the effects of disasters.

(b) These regulations are not to be interpreted as authorizing States and their political subdivisions to request or receive additional assistance relating to particular disaster incidents.