Summary

Creates a new FEMA-administered block grant option that lets States receive lump-sum funding to provide temporary housing assistance after a presidential major disaster declaration instead of using the usual individual assistance program. FEMA must estimate the cost of temporary housing for each affected State, States apply for the block grant and may request one increase if needed, and States that accept the block grant cannot also make individuals eligible for the standard individual temporary housing assistance in the declared area. The bill allows leftover grant money to be used for preparedness or mitigation activities, requires States to submit spending and impact reports (including an initial disbursement plan and annual updates), and requires FEMA to report to Congress annually on program performance, costs, and recommended changes.

Key Points

• Creates a FEMA-administered block grant option for States to provide temporary housing after a presidential major disaster declaration.
• FEMA must estimate temporary housing costs per State using section 408(c) assistance or other State benchmarks.
• States must apply to receive the block grant and may request one additional funding adjustment if needed.

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