Public social services: disaster assistance services.
This bill is expected to provide more support for low-income families facing displacement due to disasters, offering critical reassurance that they will not lose access to necessary financial assistance during difficult times. It mandates county human services agencies to work with disaster response entities to better inform beneficiaries about their eligibility for temporary and permanent homeless assistance, thus requiring a more coordinated response during crisis situations. Additionally, AB607 requires counties to develop disaster plans, ensuring they can adequately manage resources during emergencies.
Assembly Bill 607, known as the Community Resiliency and Disaster Preparedness Act of 2017, aims to enhance public social services by introducing specific provisions to assist individuals impacted by disasters. It modifies existing welfare laws related to the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program, particularly concerning eligibility criteria for those affected by disasters. Key among the changes is the allowance for individuals who demonstrate that their relocation was due to a disaster, to maintain their eligibility for CalWORKs benefits, countering the existing rule that requires a two-month state residency to receive aid.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 607 appears to be supportive among advocates for social justice and disaster preparedness. Proponents argue that the bill strengthens community resilience by ensuring vulnerable populations are protected from loss of benefits during crises. Opponents, however, may voice concerns about the potential administrative burden this legislation places on county agencies and the clarity of its implementation, but these sentiments do not appear prominently in available discussions.
The bill has sparked discussions regarding local versus state control, especially as it introduces state-mandated obligations for counties to manage disaster-related services and benefits. Financial implications arise with the requirement for continuous appropriations from the General Fund to cover administrative costs, up to $300,000 per disaster declaration. Additionally, if the Commission on State Mandates identifies any state-mandated costs, there would be an impact on local budgets, which could lead to contention among local governments regarding funding and resource allocation.