Senators Introduce a Bill to Extend Assistance to Counties for Rebuilding After Natural Disasters

Key Takeaways

On August 6, Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act to extend the time in which counties and local governments can receive federal support for rebuilding after natural disasters. The bill would amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to allow counties to receive Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds for base and overtime wages associated with repairing and replacing damaged infrastructure for up to two years following a disaster – a dramatic increase from the current period of only 180 days.

Additionally, the bill gives counties increased flexibility in invoking that FEMA aid, allowing counties to choose when their two-year clock starts rather than have it begin on the day of the disaster. This provision expands access to FEMA funds for counties, as some disasters take months to clear up before reconstruction can begin.

How Does This Impact Counties?

This bill would provide increased flexibility and support for counties as they lead the front lines of disaster recovery. It allows them to better utilize skilled workers over a longer period of time, so they can rebuild long-lasting and resilient infrastructure for the future. By increasing county collaboration in the disaster relief process, FEMA aid can be better targeted for when it is most needed.

Take Action

NACo supports the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act and urges county leaders to engage their federal delegations:

• Contact your Senators: Urge your senators to support the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act and press for committee action and floor consideration.
• Contact your Representatives: Urge your U.S. House member to introduce companion legislation so the House can move in parallel with the Senate