Connecticut Senate Bill SB00864

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/17
• Refer: 2/17/17
• Report Pass: 3/7/17
• Refer: 3/17/17
• Report Pass: 3/23/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Review Of The Community Development Block Grant Program For Hurricane Sandy.

Impact

If enacted, SB00864 would create a focused effort to assess and enhance the mechanisms through which disaster recovery funds are allocated. The existence of a task force specifically tasked with this review suggests that there has been acknowledgment of prior inefficiencies or delays in fund distribution. By investigating these processes in detail, the bill aims to streamline governmental responses and improve the efficacy of recovery efforts post-disaster, benefiting communities that are vulnerable to similar events in the future.

Summary

Senate Bill 00864 establishes a task force to review the administration of the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program in response to the impacts of Hurricane Sandy. The bill aims to improve the handling and distribution of recovery funds intended for areas severely affected by the hurricane. Task force members will include various stakeholders, such as local officials and residents directly impacted by the disaster, as well as professionals with experience in land use and zoning. This collaborative approach is expected to yield recommendations for more efficient fund distribution in future disaster recovery efforts.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB00864 has generally been supportive, particularly among those who recognize the importance of effective disaster recovery mechanisms. Proponents view this bill as a necessary step towards ensuring that funds are distributed more swiftly and accurately, thereby aiding affected communities in their recovery. However, as with many legislative efforts, there may be voices of caution regarding the execution of the bill and the potential political dynamics involved in task force decisions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the structure and appointment process of the task force. Critics may question whether the composition of the task force sufficiently represents the diversity of voices within impacted communities. Additionally, the timeline for recommendations and the accountability mechanisms for fund distribution could also lead to debates, particularly if stakeholders feel that their interests are not adequately reflected in the final output of the task force. These discussions highlight the ongoing challenges of disaster recovery and government responsiveness in the wake of natural disasters.