Establishing the State Emergency Supplemental Grant Program; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency; establishing the State Emergency Supplemental Assistance Fund; and making a transfer.
Impact
The introduction of HB 199 reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the resilience of individuals and businesses impacted by disasters. The program is designed to fill the gaps in existing federal disaster assistance, particularly for those who experience losses beyond what is covered by federal funds. By establishing the State Emergency Supplemental Assistance Fund, which will be financed by a $5 million annual transfer from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, the bill ensures that financial resources will be available for disaster recovery efforts, significantly impacting state law related to emergency management and disaster preparedness.
Summary
House Bill 199 establishes the State Emergency Supplemental Grant Program to provide additional financial assistance to residents affected by disasters. This program aims to supplement federal disaster assistance by offering grants to individuals and entities whose losses exceed federal aid limits. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency will administer the program, ensuring that those affected by both federal and state disasters can access necessary funds. The bill outlines eligibility criteria, eligible items for grant funding, and guidelines for administering the grants, emphasizing the need for prompt and effective disaster recovery support.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 199 appears to be largely positive, with broad support anticipated among lawmakers and the public who recognize the importance of disaster relief programs. Advocates argue that the bill will help alleviate the financial burdens faced by disaster survivors who often struggle to recover fully after a crisis. However, some may express concerns about the sustainability of funding and whether the allocated amount will suffice in the event of large-scale disasters. Overall, the bill is seen as a proactive measure to enhance the safety net for those affected by such events.
Contention
While the bill provides a structured approach to disaster relief, potential points of contention may arise regarding the eligibility requirements and the definition of eligible items for grants. There could be debates about the adequacy of the funding amount and whether it sufficiently addresses the long-term recovery needs of affected individuals. Additionally, concerns may be raised regarding the administration of funds and the efficiency with which the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency will process grant applications, potentially impacting timely support for those in urgent need.
Establishing the State Emergency Supplemental Grant Program; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency; establishing the State Emergency Supplemental Assistance Fund; and making a transfer.
In disaster emergency assistance, further providing for legislative purpose, for definitions and for construction, establishing the Individual Property Disaster Assistance Fund, renaming the Public Disaster Assistance Grant Program and providing for definitions relating to Public Facilities Disaster Assistance Grant Program; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency; making interfund transfers; and making editorial changes.
Establishing the Rebuild Pennsylvania Board, the Rebuild Pennsylvania Program and the Rebuild Pennsylvania Fund; providing for powers and duties of the board and for use of program money; and making an interfund transfer.
Establishing the New Nursing Faculty Grant Program; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; and making an appropriation.
Establishing the Veterans' Housing Assistance Program; imposing duties on Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and Department of Military and Veterans Affairs; and making appropriations.
Providing for Delayed Payment Plan Program; establishing the Delayed Payment Plan Program Fund; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.
Establishing the PA Teacher Pipeline Scholarship Program; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and certain institutions of higher education.
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2025 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2026; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2025 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2026.
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2023 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2024; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuity commencing 2023 and for supplemental annuity commencing 2024.
In membership, contributions and benefits, providing for supplemental annuities commencing 2024; and, in benefits, providing for supplemental annuities commencing 2024.