The bill aims to improve access to funding for victims of the Cerro Pelado Fire by providing a clear framework within the existing federal disaster response mechanisms. By establishing a dedicated office within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the bill intends to streamline the claims process, allowing quicker response and compensation for those who experienced losses. This improvement in the claims process is critical, given the often prolonged wait for disaster recovery funding, which can significantly hinder community recovery efforts following such events.
Summary
House Bill 5888, known as the Cerro Pelado Fire Assistance Act, was introduced to amend the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act. The bill specifically seeks to authorize assistance for damages resulting from the Cerro Pelado Fire, which occurred on April 22, 2022, and led to evacuations before being contained in June 2022. This legislation aims to extend federal relief to victims who suffered losses due to this wildfire, recognizing the immediate need for monetary support and assistance in rebuilding efforts in the affected areas of Sandoval County, New Mexico.
Contention
Notably, while the bill has garnered support for its intent to deliver timely assistance to wildfire victims, there are concerns regarding the allocation of funds. The legislation explicitly prohibits the use of funds designated for other fire assistance programs, such as the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, for the Cerro Pelado Fire victims. This could lead to potential disputes over resource allocation among different affected communities and raises questions about the sufficiency of appropriations made for 2024, potentially straining FEMA's budget and broader disaster relief goals.
To amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize and modify the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Research programs, and for other purposes.