S.267 - Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.267, the Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act, aims to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to allow for reimbursement for repairs, replacements, and restoration of private roads and bridges damaged by Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina. This bill specifically targets situations where these private roads and bridges serve as the sole means of access to primary residences or essential community services. The bill outlines conditions for reimbursement, including inspections, ensuring continued access for disaster recovery, and compliance with regulations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would provide financial assistance to North Carolina residents affected by Tropical Storm Helene by enabling the repair of damaged private roads and bridges. This would improve access to homes and essential services in affected areas. The bill also specifies conditions and requirements for receiving reimbursement, aiming to ensure responsible use of funds.
Potential Benefits
- Restores access to homes and essential services for residents affected by Tropical Storm Helene.
- Provides financial relief to individuals and communities struggling with the cost of repairing damaged infrastructure.
- Ensures that repairs are conducted in a cost-effective and responsible manner through required inspections and compliance with regulations.
- Allows individuals who have already received assistance to either proceed with repairs or return the assistance to be eligible under this act.
- Utilizes professionally licensed engineers for cost estimates, ensuring accuracy and preventing fraud.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending and budget deficits.
- Risk of fraud or misuse of funds despite the safeguards in place.
- Limited scope, as it only applies to damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina.
- May create a precedent for similar requests for federal assistance for private infrastructure in other disaster-stricken areas.
- Possible delays in the reimbursement process due to required inspections and compliance procedures.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to provide assistance to citizens affected by a natural disaster. It falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).