Disaster Relief Continuity Act of 2025
Summary
The Disaster Relief Continuity Act of 2025 aims to ensure continuous funding for disaster relief efforts even during lapses in government appropriations. It specifically allocates funds to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for fiscal year 2026 to carry out the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The Act outlines specific activities to be funded, including financial and operational support for major disasters, salaries for essential FEMA personnel, and continuation of existing federally-funded disaster recovery projects.
Expected Effects
This act would ensure that disaster relief efforts are not interrupted due to funding gaps. It provides a safety net for FEMA to continue its critical operations during times of fiscal uncertainty. The funding is temporary, lasting until a regular appropriation is enacted or until January 1, 2027.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures uninterrupted disaster relief funding during appropriation lapses.
- Provides financial support for declared major disasters and emergencies.
- Covers salaries and expenses of essential FEMA personnel.
- Continues payments for existing disaster recovery projects.
- Focuses funding on life-saving and life-sustaining activities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for misuse of funds if oversight is insufficient.
- Restriction on using funds for nonessential administrative functions may hinder some agency operations.
- The temporary nature of the funding may create uncertainty for long-term projects.
- Could potentially reduce the incentive for Congress to pass timely appropriations.
- May not address all aspects of disaster preparedness and mitigation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to appropriate funds for specific purposes, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants them the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
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).