H.R.1245 - Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1245, the Disaster Survivors Fairness Act of 2025, aims to improve individual assistance provided by FEMA. The bill focuses on streamlining the application process, enhancing information sharing between federal agencies, and providing more direct and flexible assistance to disaster survivors. It also includes provisions for hazard mitigation, state-managed housing pilot programs, and improved rental assistance.
Expected Effects
The Act is likely to result in a more efficient and user-friendly disaster assistance system. Survivors may experience quicker access to aid and a wider range of support options. Enhanced data sharing could also lead to better fraud prevention and more targeted assistance.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined application process through a unified disaster application system.
- Improved information sharing between federal agencies, potentially leading to faster aid delivery.
- Increased access to direct assistance for repairs and hazard mitigation.
- State-managed housing pilot authority could offer more tailored housing solutions.
- Enhanced rental assistance, addressing post-disaster rent increases.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to increased data sharing between agencies.
- Implementation challenges in establishing and maintaining the unified disaster application system.
- Increased administrative costs associated with new programs and reporting requirements.
- Possible delays in assistance if the new system is not implemented effectively.
- The waiver of information collection requirements could lead to reduced oversight.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It seeks to provide for the well-being of citizens affected by disasters. The establishment of a unified disaster application system and related data sharing provisions must be carefully managed to ensure compliance with the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, particularly regarding personal information.
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).