National Landslide Preparedness Act Reauthorization Act of 2025
Summary
The National Landslide Preparedness Act Reauthorization Act of 2025 reauthorizes and amends the existing National Landslide Preparedness Act. It focuses on improving landslide hazard and risk preparedness by incorporating new definitions related to atmospheric rivers and extreme precipitation events. The Act also enhances the National Landslide Hazards Reduction Program through updated strategies, databases, and emergency response activities.
Expected Effects
This reauthorization will likely lead to better landslide prediction, monitoring, and response capabilities. It emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders, including Native Hawaiian and Tribal organizations, to ensure comprehensive preparedness. Increased funding is allocated for landslide early warning systems and research.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced early warning systems for landslides, particularly in high-risk areas.
- Improved data collection and risk assessment through the National Landslide Hazards Database.
- Increased collaboration with Native Hawaiian and Tribal organizations for localized preparedness.
- Better understanding and mitigation of landslide risks associated with atmospheric rivers and extreme precipitation events.
- Support for regional partnerships to leverage expertise in landslide mapping, research, and monitoring.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending, potentially contributing to the national debt if not offset by savings elsewhere.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in establishing regional partnerships and implementing new programs.
- Possible overlap or duplication of efforts with existing federal and state programs.
- Reliance on the Secretary of Commerce's determination of 'atmospheric river flooding events' which could be subject to political influence.
- The act's effectiveness depends on the successful implementation and coordination of various agencies and stakeholders.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation through legislation. By addressing natural disaster preparedness and mitigation, the Act aims to protect lives and property, thus promoting the general welfare. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).