Data Improvement for Puerto Rico Recovery Act
Summary
The Data Improvement for Puerto Rico Recovery Act mandates a study by the Comptroller General to identify data gaps hindering the effective allocation and management of federal grants for Puerto Rico's recovery from various disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The study will assess statistical products used in the grant process and evaluate critical data needs reported by grant-awarding agencies. It also requires federal agencies to provide comprehensive information to the Comptroller General within 90 days of request.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of federal disaster recovery efforts in Puerto Rico by identifying and addressing data gaps. This could lead to better allocation of resources and more effective recovery strategies. Ultimately, this should improve the lives of Puerto Ricans affected by disasters.
Potential Benefits
- Improved grant allocation and management for disaster recovery in Puerto Rico.
- Enhanced data reliability and coverage for federal agencies.
- More effective use of statistical products in the grant process.
- Better integration of Puerto Rico into federal programs and data collection efforts.
- Increased transparency and accountability in disaster recovery spending.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays in disaster recovery efforts due to the time required for the study.
- Increased administrative burden on federal agencies to provide data to the Comptroller General.
- Risk that the study may not identify all relevant data gaps or provide actionable recommendations.
- Possible costs associated with implementing the study's recommendations.
- The act does not guarantee that identified data gaps will be addressed, only that they will be studied.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which empowers Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. It also aligns with Congress's power to legislate for the territories of the United States under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).