Iowa House Bill HSB551

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

A bill for an act relating to a proclamation of disaster emergency and the disaster aid contingent fund.(See HF 2308.)

Impact

If enacted, HSB551 would facilitate a more streamlined process for procuring federal funds in disaster situations, with the state contributing a portion of aid that does not exceed ten percent of the total eligible expenses. This funding structure enables local governments to obtain the necessary resources to address disaster-related requirements effectively. Additionally, the bill specifies conditions under which the state can participate in funding hazard mitigation projects, potentially reducing future disaster impacts.

Summary

House Study Bill 551 (HSB551) addresses the protocols for declaring a disaster emergency and the associated disaster aid contingent fund in Iowa. The bill proposes amendments to current legislative provisions regarding state financial participation in disaster recovery efforts. Specifically, it allows the governor to accept federal assistance for disasters and authorizes participation in funding for local governments and eligible nonprofit agencies that face serious needs stemming from such disasters.

Contention

While supporters believe that HSB551 will enhance the state's ability to respond efficiently to disasters and support local governments effectively, there are concerns regarding the implications of dependency on federal funding. Critics argue that reliance on federal assistance may create a delayed response during emergencies, as the governance structures and protocols could lead to bureaucratic impediments. Furthermore, discussions surrounding the bill may highlight the potential challenges in equitable distribution of funds across different regions depending on their disaster experiences.