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Rural Disaster Aid: Easier Access to Loans for Communities

This new law makes it easier for residents and businesses in rural areas to get financial help after natural disasters, even if they didn't receive full federal individual assistance. This means quicker access to loans for rebuilding homes and businesses, helping them recover faster after a disaster.
Key points
Easier Rural Declarations: The Small Business Administration (SBA) can now declare a disaster in rural areas even if the President hasn't authorized full individual assistance.
Significant Damage Defined: Aid is available when uninsured losses are at least 40% of the property's value.
Local Request Trigger: State Governors or tribal chief executives can request such a disaster declaration.
Reporting and Oversight: The SBA will regularly report on disaster impacts in rural areas and aid requests, and an independent body (GAO) will study challenges in accessing aid for these communities.
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VOTING RESULTS
2022-12-08
98%
For 406
Against 8
Abstain 0
Full voting results open_in_new
Became Law
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1617
Sponsor: Sen. Risch, James E. [R-ID]
Process start date: 2021-05-13
Voting date: 2022-12-08
Meeting no: 2
Voting no: 517
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Disaster Assistance for Rural Communities Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_1617.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-05-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Easier Rural Declarations: The Small Business Administration (SBA) can now declare a disaster in rural areas even if the President hasn't authorized full individual assistance.
  • Significant Damage Defined: Aid is available when uninsured losses are at least 40% of the property's value.
  • Local Request Trigger: State Governors or tribal chief executives can request such a disaster declaration.
  • Reporting and Oversight: The SBA will regularly report on disaster impacts in rural areas and aid requests, and an independent body (GAO) will study challenges in accessing aid for these communities.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Became Law.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Where is the official voting record?

The official roll call vote is recorded at: voting record

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Risch, James E. [R-ID].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Became Public Law No: 117-249.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Economy Benefits Agriculture