U.S. Senate introduces bipartisan Disaster Assistance Simplification Act

Key Takeaways

On March 5, the bipartisan Disaster Assistance Simplification Act (S. 861) was introduced in the U.S. Senate to streamline the federal disaster aid process for survivors. NACo endorsed this legislation, which would make it easier for county residents to access critical assistance after disasters.

About the  Disaster Assistance Simplification Act

The Disaster Assistance Simplification Act creates a universal application for disaster survivors seeking federal aid, streamlining access to programs across multiple agencies. Currently, survivors must navigate complex, time-consuming applications for different forms of assistance. By allowing FEMA to share applicant information securely with other agencies, the bill aims to simplify recovery efforts and ensure survivors receive the help they need more efficiently.

The bill specifically:

• Requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a universal disaster application across federal agencies.
• Allows FEMA to share applicant information with other federal agencies to streamline recovery efforts.
• Ensures all information-sharing practices comply with federal data security standards to protect survivors’ personal information.

Read S. 861

Impact on Counties

Counties are on the front lines of disaster response and recovery. When federal aid becomes available following a disaster, many residents struggle with redundant and complicated applications, delaying much-needed support. This bill would:

• Reduce administrative burdens for disaster survivors, helping them access assistance more quickly through a single application system.
• Improve coordination between federal agencies in disaster recovery efforts by allowing safe information sharing.
• Ease financial and emotional stress on county residents by simplifying the aid process during the turbulent post-disaster recovery process.

NACo strongly supports this legislation and urges Congress to advance this bill to ensure disaster survivors receive timely and efficient assistance.