Iowa Senate Bill SSB3061

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24

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 SF 2193.)

Impact

If enacted, SSB3061 would have a significant impact on the administration of disaster relief in Iowa, specifically by allowing the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to enter at least one ongoing contract with local entities to administer the grant programs. This change aims to establish a robust and responsive disaster aid infrastructure that can be activated quickly in the event of a disaster, effectively streamlining aid processes and reducing the time it takes for individuals to receive assistance.

Summary

Senate Study Bill 3061 focuses on enhancing disaster aid through the establishment and modification of the disaster aid individual assistance grant fund and the disaster case advocacy grant fund in Iowa. The bill seeks to amend existing laws to improve the delivery and administration of disaster assistance, ensuring timely support for individuals and families affected by disasters. A notable change is the increase in the maximum grant amount for households from $5,000 to $7,000, allowing for greater financial relief in the wake of disasters.

Contention

Despite the bill's positive intentions, there may be concerns from various stakeholders about the adequacy of the increase in grant funds and the reliance on local administrative entities for implementing the programs. Stakeholders might question whether the proposed framework for disaster aid is sufficient and equitable, particularly in areas prone to frequent disasters. Moreover, the capacity of local entities to manage these programs effectively can be a point of contention, potentially leading to debates on governance and accountability in disaster response.