REAADI for Disasters Act Real Emergency Access for Aging and Disability Inclusion for Disasters Act
The legislation enforces compliance with existing civil rights laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act, during all phases of disaster preparation, response, and recovery. By doing so, it aims to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities and older adults in emergency situations. Moreover, the act aims to enhance state and local emergency management policies by requiring engagement from these communities in planning and evaluative capacities concerning disaster management.
House Bill 2371, also known as the Real Emergency Access for Aging and Disability Inclusion for Disasters Act (REAADI for Disasters Act), focuses on improving the preparedness and response of individuals with disabilities and older adults during disasters. It establishes a framework ensuring these populations are integrated into disaster-related planning, response, and recovery processes. The bill aims to enhance accessibility to disaster services and ensure that older adults and individuals with disabilities receive the necessary support to mitigate risks associated with natural disasters.
Community discussions surrounding the bill emphasize the need for increased representation of vulnerable populations in disaster management frameworks. There are concerns that existing systems often overlook the unique needs of older adults and individuals with disabilities, exposing them to heightened risks during disasters. By mandating that these communities be involved in decision-making processes, supporters argue that the bill provides essential protections and fosters more inclusive disaster preparedness strategies. However, challenges may arise in implementing these requirements universally across diverse jurisdictions, given the varying capacities and resources of local governments.