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FEMA Wildfire Response: Easier Financial Aid and Better Disaster Recovery Rules.

This Act aims to improve the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) response to wildfires, making it easier for citizens and communities to receive aid. It mandates new guidelines for handling toxic debris and water contamination after fires and revises how wildfire prevention projects are evaluated. A key change removes the income threshold for individuals seeking a waiver of duplicate benefits, increasing financial support accessibility for disaster survivors.
Key points
Disaster Recovery Guidance: FEMA must update its Public Assistance Program to include specific guidance on wildfire recovery challenges, such as debris removal, emergency protective measures, and addressing toxic drinking water resources.
Easier Financial Relief: The income threshold for waiving the requirement to repay duplicate benefits (e.g., when aid from different sources overlaps) is eliminated, meaning more affected families can retain necessary funds.
Improved Prevention Funding: FEMA must review and update criteria for evaluating the cost-effectiveness of wildfire mitigation projects, including defensible space, vegetation management, and nature-based infrastructure, leading to more effective protection.
Expanded Emergency Coverage: The Fire Management Assistance Program (FMAG) will now cover assessments and emergency stabilization to protect public safety, regardless of the incident period for a declared fire.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_7070
Sponsor: Rep. Stanton, Greg [D-AZ-4]
Process start date: 2024-01-22