S.1626 - National Landslide Preparedness Act Reauthorization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The National Landslide Preparedness Act Reauthorization Act of 2025 (S.1626) aims to reauthorize and enhance the existing National Landslide Preparedness Act. The bill focuses on improving landslide hazard and risk assessment, preparedness, and emergency response activities. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing atmospheric river flooding events and extreme precipitation events as contributing factors to landslide risks.
Expected Effects
The reauthorization will likely lead to increased funding and resources for landslide research, mapping, monitoring, and early warning systems. This includes a focus on regions particularly vulnerable to landslides, such as Alaska, and incorporates Native Hawaiian and Tribal organizations into preparedness efforts. The Act's emphasis on data collection and risk assessment should improve community resilience.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced landslide early warning systems, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage.
- Improved risk assessment and mapping, leading to better land-use planning and development decisions.
- Increased collaboration among federal, state, local, and tribal entities, improving the effectiveness of preparedness and response efforts.
- Specific attention to the risks posed by atmospheric rivers and extreme precipitation events, addressing a growing threat.
- Increased funding for landslide-related activities, ensuring the program's continued operation and expansion.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending, potentially contributing to the national debt if not offset by other budget adjustments.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies in the implementation of the program.
- Possible over-regulation of land use in areas identified as high-risk for landslides.
- The focus on specific types of events (atmospheric rivers) might divert resources from other important landslide causes.
- Reliance on federal funding could make the program vulnerable to budget cuts in the future.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. By addressing landslide hazards and promoting preparedness, the bill aims to protect lives and property. The bill also respects the role of states and tribal organizations, aligning with principles of federalism.
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).