Representatives Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL), Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Nancy Mace (R-SC) announced the formation of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus on July 27. The new caucus will work to advance bi-partisan legislation and policies providing for efficient, equitable, relief for disaster survivors and advocate for disaster preparedness measures and programs. The founding co-chairs all represent areas heavily impacted by disasters in the last several years.
Along with the creation of the caucus, the founding members introduced two bills. The “Delivering Equity and Justice for Disaster Survivors Act of 2022” would establish a Disaster Equity and Justice Subcommittee within FEMA’s National Advisory Council to help amplify the voices, needs, and experiences of disaster survivors. The “Office of Disaster Recovery Act” would direct the Secretary of Commerce to create an office of disaster recovery to support economic recovery following disasters.
“Disasters don’t recognize borders or political party, and neither should our nation’s disaster preparedness or recovery system,” said Representative Carter in a press release announcing the creation of the caucus. “As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity due to climate change, we need to work together to strengthen our systems and save lives. I am proud to join with my fellow co-chairs to launch this bipartisan caucus that is committed to advocating for effective preparedness and recovery measures and programs that best serve the American people and don’t leave anyone behind.”
“The creation of the new Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus will serve as a phenomenal tool in crafting legislation to better protect our communities prone to natural disasters,” said Representative Gimenez. “South Florida remains a high-risk area for flooding and storm damage. Advocating for crucial funding and programs through the caucus will fortify our ability to keeping South Florida the greatest place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Read the press release at: https://bit.ly/3S8rwum