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Creates an optional FEMA alternative block grant for public assistance after a major disaster that lets a State receive a single lump-sum payment instead of individual, project-specific federal public assistance. FEMA must estimate public assistance costs, set application and reporting rules, and if a State accepts the block grant, most other direct federal public assistance for that disaster is limited for that State.
Establish an alternative block grant program to provide funds for public assistance after a Presidential major disaster declaration.
Assess the cost of public assistance for each impacted State after a major disaster, including reasonable State administrative expenses, and reduce the total by the non‑Federal shares that would otherwise apply.
Consult with each applicable State when making the cost assessment to validate eligible costs and ensure the assessment reflects necessary recovery efforts.
Establish a process that lets a State elect to apply for a block grant under this section instead of applying for direct public assistance under the Stafford Act.
Ensure a State may request a single adjustment to the block grant amount if the initial grant is insufficient to complete activities that would otherwise be carried out under the Stafford Act.
Primary effects: State governments gain a new option to receive one lump-sum federal payment to cover public assistance needs after a major disaster. States that opt in will take on more responsibility for deciding how funds are allocated to local governments, critical infrastructure owners, and communities within the State. Local governments, tribal governments, and other recipients of public assistance could see changes in timing, eligibility decisions, and project prioritization because decisions shift to State-level processes. FEMA’s role will shift toward upfront cost assessment, rulemaking, and oversight rather than direct project-level assistance for States that accept the block grant. Potential benefits include faster access to a single payment and more flexible use of funds; potential risks include uneven distribution decisions across localities, possible delays while States set up administrative procedures, and concerns about oversight and equitable treatment of disaster-impacted communities. Overall fiscal impact depends on how FEMA’s cost assessments are done and the size of the block grants; the text establishes authorities and requirements but does not itself appropriate funds.
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Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Introduced May 7, 2025 by Jared Moskowitz · Last progress May 7, 2025
Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.
Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Introduced in House