RELATING TO EMERGENCY PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 3118 establishes an emergency public assistance program to provide timely financial aid to individuals and families affected by disasters, ensuring efficient resource allocation.

Reported from HHS/PSM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2220) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.

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Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 3118 (SB 3118) aims to enhance the state's capacity to provide temporary public assistance following emergencies. The bill seeks to establish a framework for emergency public assistance programs administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS), ensuring that individuals and families affected by disasters receive timely support.

Key Provisions

Emergency Public Assistance Program: The bill establishes an emergency public assistance program that will provide temporary financial aid to individuals and families impacted by emergencies, such as natural disasters.

Expenditure Ceiling: SB 3118 sets an expenditure ceiling for the emergency public assistance program, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively during times of crisis.

Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of necessary funds to support the implementation of the emergency assistance program, although specific dollar amounts are not detailed in the summary.

Collaboration with Emergency Management: The bill emphasizes coordination between the DHS and emergency management agencies to streamline the delivery of assistance during emergencies.

Affected Parties

Individuals and Families: The primary beneficiaries of SB 3118 will be residents of the state who experience financial hardship due to emergencies.

Department of Human Services (DHS): The DHS will be responsible for administering the emergency public assistance program, requiring additional resources and training to implement the new provisions effectively.

Emergency Management Agencies: These agencies will collaborate with the DHS to ensure that assistance is provided in a timely and organized manner.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 24, 2024

First Reading: January 24, 2024

Committee Hearings: Public hearings were held on February 2, 2024, with recommendations for amendments from both the Health and Human Services (HHS) and Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) committees.

Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on February 9, 2024, with amendments and was referred to the Ways and Means (WAM) committee for further consideration.

Voting: The bill received unanimous support in committee votes, indicating strong bipartisan backing for the proposed measures.

Related Legislation

HB 2429: A companion bill that may address similar issues regarding emergency public assistance.

SB 3118 represents a proactive approach to supporting communities in times of crisis, ensuring that essential resources are available to those in need. The bill's progression through the legislative process reflects a commitment to enhancing the state's emergency response capabilities.

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