WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 861

Disaster Assistance Simplification Act

119th Congress Introduced by Ted Budd and 5 co-sponsors

The Disaster Assistance Simplification Act streamlines federal aid for disaster survivors, ensuring faster assistance and better communication while protecting personal information.

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Reported by Senator Paul without amendment. Without written report.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 861

Summary of S. 861 - Disaster Assistance Simplification Act

Bill Number: S. 861
Introduced: March 5, 2025
Status: Reported by the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs without amendment
Primary Sponsor: Senator Gary Peters
Cosponsors: Senators Thomas Tillis, James Lankford, Ted Budd, Rand Paul, Joni Ernst

Purpose and Intent

The Disaster Assistance Simplification Act aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of federal disaster assistance programs. The primary goals of the bill are to:

  • Streamline the sharing of information among federal disaster assistance agencies.
  • Expedite the delivery of life-saving assistance to disaster survivors.
  • Accelerate the recovery process for communities affected by disasters.
  • Safeguard the security and privacy of information provided by disaster survivors.

Key Provisions

Unified Disaster Assistance Intake Process

The bill proposes the establishment of a Unified Disaster Assistance Intake Process and System under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. Key features include:

  • Consolidated Application: A single application process for various forms of disaster assistance, making it easier for applicants to access the help they need.
  • Status Updates: Applicants will be able to receive updates on their application status and make necessary updates throughout their recovery journey.
  • Information Distribution: The system will provide disaster survivors with information about additional recovery resources available in their jurisdiction.
  • Direct Communication: Disaster assistance agencies will have the capability to communicate directly with survivors, improving the flow of information.
  • Fraud Prevention: The system will support the detection and prevention of waste, fraud, and abuse in the administration of disaster assistance programs.

Implementation Timeline

  • The bill mandates that the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) must develop and establish the unified intake process within 360 days of the bill's enactment.

Impact

The Disaster Assistance Simplification Act is expected to significantly improve the experience of disaster survivors by:

  • Reducing bureaucratic hurdles in accessing assistance.
  • Ensuring faster and more coordinated responses to disaster situations.
  • Enhancing the overall effectiveness of federal disaster recovery efforts.

Affected Parties

  • Disaster Survivors: Individuals, businesses, and organizations seeking assistance will benefit from a more streamlined process.
  • Federal Agencies: Agencies involved in disaster assistance will have improved systems for managing applications and distributing aid.
  • State and Local Governments: These entities will be better equipped to coordinate with federal agencies and support their communities during recovery efforts.

Legislative Actions

  • March 5, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
  • July 30, 2025: Ordered to be reported favorably without amendment.
  • November 7, 2025: Reported by Senator Paul without amendment and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar.

This summary provides an overview of the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on disaster recovery efforts in the United States.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.