Bill > SB0042

This bill establishes the State Disaster Relief Program, to be administered by TEMA (Tennessee Emergency Management Agency), which will provide grants to county governments for addressing local natural disasters that do not qualify for federal disaster relief. Under the program, a county can request a grant after its executive has declared a state of emergency for a disaster that does not meet federal assistance thresholds. The grants, which are limited to $250,000 per fiscal year for each county, can be used for repairing public infrastructure, conducting emergency life-saving measures, protecting public health and safety, and removing debris from publicly owned areas. The bill broadly defines "disaster" to include a wide range of natural and human-caused catastrophes such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, fires, and civil disturbances. Grant disbursements are contingent upon funds specifically allocated in the general appropriations act, with legislative intent for yearly recurring appropriations. The agency administering the program will evaluate grant requests, determine grant amounts, and disburse funds to counties meeting the specified criteria. The act will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0042&ga=114