H.R.2341 - Duplications of Benefits Victims Relief Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2341, the Duplications of Benefits Victims Relief Act, aims to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The amendment focuses on waiving certain prohibitions on the duplication of benefits for those affected by major disasters or emergencies. It grants the President the authority to waive these prohibitions upon a Governor's request, provided it's in the public interest and won't lead to waste, fraud, or abuse.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would provide more flexibility in disaster relief efforts. It allows for the potential of individuals and entities to receive assistance from multiple sources without the typical restrictions on duplicated benefits. The bill also mandates a report from FEMA on improving disaster assistance delivery.
Potential Benefits
- Allows for more comprehensive disaster relief by waiving duplication of benefit prohibitions.
- Provides the President with the flexibility to address unique disaster situations.
- Ensures that loans are not automatically considered a duplication of assistance if all federal aid is used for disaster-related losses.
- Prevents income thresholds from limiting eligibility for waivers.
- Requires a report to Congress on improving disaster assistance delivery, potentially leading to more efficient and coordinated aid.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased waste, fraud, or abuse if waivers are not carefully managed.
- The President's broad discretion in granting waivers could lead to inconsistent application of the law.
- Increased complexity in disaster relief administration due to the waiver process.
- The report requirement could create an additional administrative burden for FEMA.
- There is no guarantee that the legislative proposals in the report will be enacted, limiting its potential impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). This clause allows Congress to provide for the well-being of citizens, which includes disaster relief. The bill delegates authority to the President, which is a common practice, but this delegation must be appropriately limited to prevent abuse of power. The bill includes provisions aimed at preventing waste, fraud, and abuse, which supports its constitutionality.
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).