Requests FEMA to extend the temporary housing program for residents affected by Hurricane Ida
Impact
The resolution expresses significant concern regarding the financial implications for many Hurricane Ida survivors who may soon face monthly rent charges up to $1,700 following a rental period where they were either not required to pay or charged a reduced rate. The urgency of HCR111 reflects the need to protect vulnerable individuals, especially those on fixed incomes, from potential homelessness or financial hardship stemming from rent payments they may not be able to afford.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 111 (HCR111) urges the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to extend temporary housing agreements and delay the implementation of rent payments for survivors impacted by Hurricane Ida. The resolution highlights the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida on August 29, 2021, in Louisiana, particularly in regions such as Terrebonne, Lafourche, and Jefferson. Following the hurricane, FEMA initially provided housing assistance which has been extended but is set to transition into charging fair market rent, potentially leading to significant financial burdens for the survivors.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR111 appears supportive as it strives to advocate for disaster survivors. The resolution demonstrates a proactive approach by the Louisiana legislature urging federal intervention to aid individuals still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Ida. The broad support evidenced by a unanimous vote in the Senate (35 in favor, 0 against) indicates a collective recognition of the pressing needs of affected communities and a unified stance toward advocating for their relief.
Contention
While the resolution is primarily supportive of extending aid, it also underlines the contentious issue of the transition to fair market rent, which could create new challenges for survivors. A significant point of contention is whether FEMA's policies adequately consider the ongoing recovery struggles of individuals affected by disasters. HCR111 aims to address these disparities by requesting action from FEMA to provide continued support under current conditions without introducing burdensome financial obligations prematurely.
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to discuss possible adjustments to the Minimum Foundation Program formula in order to ensure adequate funding for school systems affected by Hurricane Laura or Hurricane Delta
Requests the governor to add Beauregard Parish, Vernon Parish, Allen Parish, and Rapides Parish to the areas covered by the request for a federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Delta
Urges the commissioner of insurance to create the Hurricane Mitigation Commission to study and report findings and recommendations relative to the handling of property insurance claims in the wake of hurricanes and the necessity of a catastrophe savings account.
Urges and requests the administration of the New Orleans Aviation Board to appear before the Jefferson Parish and Kenner City Council annually to provide updates on hurricane preparedness and other matters of mutual concern regarding infrastructure prior to the start of hurricane season
Urges and requests the Louisiana attorney general to seek legal relief against the Federal Emergency Management Agency's new pricing for the National Flood Insurance Program
Suspends the premium surcharge of at least ten percent assessed by the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation for policies issued in parishes affected by the 2020 and 2021 hurricanes
Requests that BESE and the Recovery School District study jointly the feasibility of building a high school at the site of the former Alfred Lawless High School in New Orleans and account for the use of hurricane recovery funds