H.R.3661 - Extreme Weather and Heat Response Modernization Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3661, the Extreme Weather and Heat Response Modernization Act, directs FEMA to take specific actions related to incident periods and extreme weather events. It mandates the creation of an advisory panel to review incident period determination processes and requires FEMA to issue guidance and conduct studies on mitigating and responding to extreme heat and cold. The bill also allows FEMA to consider innovative preparedness and mitigation projects for extreme heat and cold events under existing Stafford Act provisions.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to improve FEMA's response to extreme weather events by modernizing incident period determinations and enhancing mitigation and preparedness efforts. This includes better support for community cooling and resilience centers. The intended outcome is a more effective and coordinated federal response to extreme weather, ultimately protecting lives and property.
Potential Benefits
- Improved incident period determination for slow-onset, non-contiguous, compound, and cascading disasters.
- Enhanced mitigation and preparedness projects for extreme heat and cold events.
- Establishment of community cooling and resilience centers.
- Guidance for extreme temperature events and hazard mitigation planning.
- Study on the impact of extreme heat and cold, with recommendations for mitigation and response.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative burden on FEMA.
- Costs associated with establishing advisory panels, conducting studies, and implementing new regulations.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the required review periods and rulemaking processes.
- Risk that the recommendations and guidance may not be effectively implemented or enforced.
- The effectiveness of the Act depends on the quality and implementation of the advisory panel's recommendations and FEMA's subsequent actions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). It does so by enhancing the federal government's ability to respond to and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events, which directly affect public safety and well-being. The bill delegates specific tasks to FEMA, an executive agency, which is consistent with Congress's legislative powers under Article I, Section 8.
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).