What does the Stafford Act authorize?

The Stafford Act primarily authorizes the federal government to provide assistance to states and localities in response to disasters and emergencies. This federal assistance can include resources such as financial aid, technical assistance, and support for recovery efforts. The act streamlines the process through which federal aid is made available, ensuring that states can receive the necessary resources to recover from major disasters.

The act is designed to help state and local governments overcome the daunting challenges they may face during and after a disaster, reinforcing the federal government's role in supporting emergency management efforts when local resources are overwhelmed. While state-level planning, community-led initiatives, and international disaster relief are important elements of emergency management, they do not fall under the specific provisions authorized by the Stafford Act. Hence, the focus on federal assistance in the correct answer aligns with the primary purpose of the act.