Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB5067

Introduced
9/17/24  
Refer
9/17/24  

Caption

Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2024

Impact

This bill has the potential to make notable changes to existing state laws concerning disaster recovery and assistance. By improving the structure of individual assistance programs, the bill addresses previous gaps in support for both homeowners and renters post-disaster. It introduces provisions for direct assistance in repairs and includes mechanisms to provide better guidance for hazard mitigation measures. The establishment of an individual assistance dashboard is expected to enhance transparency and accessibility for applicants, ultimately aiming to reduce bureaucratic barriers.

Summary

SB5067, known as the Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2024, aims to enhance the assistance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to individuals affected by disasters. The bill makes significant amendments to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, focusing specifically on better management of individual assistance programs. It seeks to streamline processes and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, particularly emphasizing the importance of hazard mitigation and long-term recovery efforts for disaster survivors.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB5067 appears positive among disaster recovery advocates and local governments who argue that the enhancements proposed will better serve the needs of communities affected by disasters. Many stakeholders view the potential improvements as necessary changes to an often convoluted aid process, ultimately leading to a more effective recovery framework. However, some fiscal conservatives have raised concerns regarding the associated costs and long-term sustainability of the proposed funding initiatives, indicating a division in sentiment among different legislative factions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the adequacy of funding mechanisms and the scope of assistance outlined in the bill. Some legislators express concern that while enhancing individual assistance is critical, the bill must also balance fiscal responsibility. Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding the operational capacity of FEMA to manage the expanded role in disaster recovery set forth by the bill, particularly in terms of staffing and resource allocation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

US HB1245

Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2025

US HB9750

Natural Disaster Recovery Program Act of 2024

US HB426

Housing Survivors of Major Disasters ActThis bill lowers the eligibility criteria for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individuals and Households Program (IHP) housing assistance, including for IHP permanent housing construction, and requires FEMA to consider evidence of constructive ownership of a residence when determining eligibility for IHP home repair or home replacement assistance.  Specifically, the bill lowers the level of damage required for certain IHP housing assistance eligibility, so the residence must merely be damaged by a major disaster instead of rendered uninhabitable. Also, under current law, FEMA is authorized to provide assistance for permanent housing construction where (1) no alternative housing resources are available; and (2) other types of temporary housing assistance are unavailable, infeasible, or not cost-effective. The bill authorizes IHP permanent housing construction where FEMA determines such assistance is a cost-effective alternative to other housing solutions, including temporary housing costs.Additionally, the bill requires FEMA to consider an individual or household’s claim of constructive (i.e., implied) ownership, where evidence supports its existence is more likely than not, when determining eligibility for IHP financial assistance for home repair or replacement for a residence without documented ownership rights. FEMA must consider all evidence provided when determining whether constructive ownership more likely than not exists, and the bill lists examples of evidence. If FEMA determines the evidence is insufficient, FEMA may require a signed declarative statement describing the constructive ownership. FEMA may not require notarization of the statement.

US SB120

Disaster Housing Reform for American Families Act

US SB5134

RIDER Act Regional Impact of Disasters and Emergencies Relief Act

US HB9680

RIDER Act Regional Impact of Disasters and Emergencies Relief Act

US SB267

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US HB9809

Protecting Families and the Solvency of the National Flood Insurance Program Act of 2024