Iowa House Bill HSB549

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to disaster aid including the disaster aid individual assistance grant fund and program and the disaster case advocacy grant fund and program.(See HF 2167.)

Impact

Under the proposed legislation, the grant amount limit for households impacted by disasters would increase from $5,000 to $7,000. This change seeks to provide more substantial support to families dealing with significant hardships following disasters. By facilitating an ongoing contract with local administrative providers, the bill aims to minimize delays in accessing funds when disasters strike, potentially improving recovery times for local communities. The bill also mandates that the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management oversees the grant program's administration, improving state coordination in disaster relief.

Summary

House Study Bill 549 aims to enhance disaster aid resources available to individuals affected by disasters in Iowa. The bill focuses on two main programs: the disaster aid individual assistance grant fund and the disaster case advocacy grant fund. It provides a framework for administering funds that help individuals meet disaster-related expenses and access necessary services in times of need. The bill allows for the establishment of a local administrative entity that coordinates these efforts, ensuring quick response during emergencies.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at improving disaster response, there may be discussions surrounding appropriations and the extent of available funding. The budgetary implications of increasing grant sizes and maintaining a robust administrative framework could spark debate among legislators regarding fiscal responsibility and prioritization of resources within the state's budget. Moreover, concerns about the efficiency of local administrative entities and the adequacy of regulations surrounding grants may also arise, particularly if issues of access or program management come to light.