H.R.3177 - To require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ensure that cost estimates, acquisition of proper materials, and any other activity related to certain projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act are performed by professionals licensed in the relevant State, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3177 mandates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) utilize appropriately licensed professionals for cost estimation, material acquisition, and other activities related to projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. This bill aims to ensure that rebuilding efforts after disasters are handled by qualified individuals licensed in the relevant state. The bill also outlines requirements for FEMA's approval processes, state hiring responsibilities, and the qualifications of FEMA employees involved in rebuilding projects.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase the cost of FEMA projects due to the requirement of hiring licensed professionals. It will also likely lead to more efficient and effective disaster recovery efforts by ensuring qualified personnel are involved. This may reduce long-term costs associated with poorly executed projects.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures qualified professionals handle disaster relief projects, potentially leading to higher quality and more durable infrastructure.
- Streamlines the approval process for plans and materials suggested by licensed professionals, reducing delays.
- Empowers state and local governments by allowing them to suggest contractors.
- Could reduce fraud and mismanagement of funds by requiring professional oversight.
- May improve public trust in FEMA's ability to manage disaster recovery effectively.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could increase the cost of disaster relief projects due to higher labor costs for licensed professionals.
- May create bureaucratic hurdles and slow down the initial response to disasters.
- Could potentially limit FEMA's flexibility in choosing contractors, even if more cost-effective options exist.
- The definition of "appropriately licensed professional" may be subject to interpretation and potential legal challenges.
- May place additional burden on states to find and hire qualified professionals quickly.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by aiming to improve disaster recovery efforts. It does not seem to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations on federal power. The bill operates within the scope of Congress's power to regulate disaster relief efforts, which can be argued as necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers.
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).