Clean Up Disasters and Emergencies with Better Recovery and Immediate Support Act; Clean Up DEBRIS Act
Summary
The "Clean Up DEBRIS Act" amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to provide assistance to common interest communities, condominiums, and housing cooperatives damaged by major disasters. It defines these residential entities and mandates the President to issue rules for debris removal from these properties when a state or local government determines it poses a threat to life, public health, safety, or economic recovery. The amendments apply to disasters declared on or after the enactment of the Act.
Expected Effects
This act will expand federal disaster relief to include common interest communities, condominiums, and housing cooperatives. It will provide a framework for the removal of debris from these properties following a major disaster. This could lead to quicker recovery times for affected communities.
Potential Benefits
- Provides federal assistance for debris removal in residential common interest communities.
- Aids in the recovery process for homeowners in affected areas.
- Potentially reduces the financial burden on individuals and communities after a disaster.
- Prioritizes debris removal based on threats to life, health, safety, and economic recovery.
- Defers to state and local laws and ordinances in defining relevant terms.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased federal spending on disaster relief.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in the implementation of the rules.
- Possible disputes over what constitutes a threat to life, health, safety, or economic recovery.
- May not address all the needs of affected communities.
- The definition of terms may vary across states, leading to inconsistencies.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By providing disaster relief, the bill aims to improve the well-being of communities affected by major disasters. Additionally, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and this bill respects that by deferring to state and local laws and ordinances.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).