FAQ.pdf

This is a Frequently Asked Questions document for the PHMSA Hazmat Grants Program addressing the allowability of food and refreshment costs. The FAQ clarifies that food and refreshments are generally unallowable under PHMSA's Hazmat Grants Program, with applicants encouraged to plan meal breaks and use per diem rates for conference attendees to purchase their own meals. However, beverages such as water are allowable for training in rural locations or outdoor training where hydration is essential for safe exercise execution. Applicants with unique circumstances requiring food costs must include and justify the request within their application. The guidance references 2 CFR 200.432, which permits non-federal entities as conference sponsors or hosts to pay for facility rental, speakers' fees, meal and refreshment costs, and authorizes agencies to allow food at conferences when deemed reasonable and necessary.

The related FY 2026 HMSI Grant Award, administered by the Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA), provides financial assistance to state government entities for conducting hazardous materials shipper inspections. Eligible applicants are state government agencies with authority to conduct hazardous materials shipper inspections, with a maximum of one award per state. The program supports personnel costs for inspectors, travel expenses, equipment and supplies, inspector training, and certification development. Recent award values have ranged from approximately $22,000 to $290,000, with performance periods of 12 to 24 months. Recipients must collect and share inspection data using the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Compliance Analysis and Performance Review Information (CAPRI) system and maintain auditable accounting systems compliant with 2 CFR Part 200 requirements. No cost-sharing or matching requirements are specified.