Bill > HR437

This bill, known as the "Support Neighborhoods Offset Winter Damage Act of 2025" or the "SNOW Act of 2025," amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to expand federal assistance for winter storms. The bill modifies existing disaster relief provisions by allowing recipients of hazard mitigation assistance to use funds for activities that reduce future damage from winter storms, including snow removal equipment. It establishes a new process for declaring winter storm disasters by allowing FEMA to waive traditional snowfall and damage requirements if certain conditions are met, such as extreme wind speeds, prolonged lake-effect snow, or impacts on low-income or rural areas. The bill also increases the federal cost share for disaster assistance, providing up to 90% federal funding for rural or disadvantaged areas impacted by winter storms, compared to the previous standard of 75%. Additionally, the legislation defines a "winter storm" as a combination of heavy snow, blowing snow, or dangerous wind chills, and requires FEMA to create regulations for providing various types of assistance specifically for winter storm events, including support for debris removal, infrastructure repair, and public utilities.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/437/all-info