Federal Emergency Management Advancement of Equity Act
Impact
If enacted, the bill is expected to significantly impact how FEMA allocates federal disaster assistance. The provisions require the agency to develop criteria aimed at promoting equity in its operations and to prioritize the integration of these criteria into existing policies. One key aspect of the bill mandates the adjustment of data collection systems to better reflect the needs and outcomes of diverse communities, thereby identifying barriers to equitable disaster assistance.
Summary
House Bill 5775, known as the Federal Emergency Management Advancement of Equity Act, aims to enhance equity in federal disaster assistance policies and programs. The bill proposes the establishment of an equity steering group and the designation of an equity advisor within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It emphasizes the need for improved data collection and analysis to understand and rectify disparities in disaster assistance distribution, ensuring that underserved communities are not left behind during emergencies.
Contention
However, the bill may face contention regarding resource allocation and compliance burdens placed on FEMA. Critics may argue that the newly mandated procedures could slow down response times in emergencies by adding layers of requirements for equity assessments. Furthermore, supporters of the bill assert that without addressing the historical inequities in disaster assistance distribution, vulnerable communities will remain at a disadvantage when facing disasters, highlighting a critical need for such reforms.
Wildfire Recovery Act This bill makes changes with respect to the federal cost share for Fire Management Assistance Grants and provides that the federal share shall be not less than 75% of the eligible cost. Specifically, the bill directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to conduct and complete a rulemaking to provide criteria for the circumstances under which FEMA may recommend that the President increase the federal cost share. Such criteria shall include a threshold metric that assesses the financial impact to a state or local government from responding to a fire for which fire management assistance is being provided.
To prohibit certain sex offenders from entering or using the services of certain emergency shelters, to authorize the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to designate emergency shelters for such sex offenders, and for other purposes.
To require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ensure that cost estimates, acquisition of proper materials, and any other activity related to certain projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act are performed by professionals licensed in the relevant State, and for other purposes.