Summary of HR 3654 - TERRA Act

Overview

The Tribal Emergency Response Resources Act (TERRA Act), designated as HR 3654, was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 29, 2025. The bill aims to enhance the capacity of tribal governments to respond to emergencies by streamlining federal support and resources. As of September 9, 2025, subcommittee hearings have been held, and the bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and subsequently to the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs.

Purpose

The primary intent of the TERRA Act is to provide a structured framework for tribal governments to develop and implement emergency response plans. This legislation seeks to integrate federal programs and resources effectively, ensuring that tribal communities can respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies.

Key Provisions

The TERRA Act is organized into several sections, each addressing different aspects of emergency response planning and implementation:

Title I - Program Components; Plan Development and Approval

• Sec. 101: Authorizes the integration of various federal programs to support tribal emergency response efforts.
• Sec. 102: Identifies eligible federal programs that can be utilized by tribes.
• Sec. 103: Outlines activities that tribes can undertake under an approved emergency response plan.
• Sec. 104: Establishes requirements for the development of emergency response plans.
• Sec. 105: Provides for technical assistance to tribes in plan development.
• Sec. 106: Details the submission and review process for emergency response plans.
• Sec. 107: Grants waiver authority for certain requirements to facilitate plan approval.
• Sec. 108: Specifies the criteria for plan approval or denial.

Title II - Plan Implementation; Funding Administration; Interdepartmental Memorandum of Agreement; Report

• Sec. 201: Reduces reporting requirements for tribes to ease administrative burdens.
• Sec. 202: Implements streamlined permitting and review processes for emergency response activities.
• Sec. 203: Expedites the fee-to-trust process to facilitate quicker implementation of plans.
• Sec. 204: Establishes a streamlined funding framework for emergency response initiatives.
• Sec. 205: Addresses the transfer and distribution of funds to tribal governments.
• Sec. 206: Outlines the administration of funds allocated for emergency response.
• Sec. 207: Ensures that there will be no reduction in funding amounts available to tribes.
• Sec. 208: Calls for an interdepartmental memorandum of agreement to enhance coordination among federal agencies.
• Sec. 209: Requires a report on the implementation and effectiveness of the Act.

Impact

The TERRA Act is expected to significantly benefit tribal governments by:
- Enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies through better access to federal resources.
- Reducing bureaucratic hurdles that can delay emergency response efforts.
- Providing a clear framework for collaboration between tribal and federal agencies.

Conclusion

The TERRA Act represents a critical step towards empowering tribal governments in emergency preparedness and response. By streamlining processes and enhancing resource availability, the legislation aims to ensure that tribal communities are better equipped to handle emergencies effectively. The bill is currently under consideration, with further discussions anticipated as it progresses through the legislative process.