Bill > HR760

This bill provides a specific mechanism for reimbursing state, tribal, and local governments in North Carolina for repairs to private roads and bridges damaged by Tropical Storm Helene under a specific Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster declaration. The bill allows governments to seek reimbursement for private road and bridge repairs that serve as the sole access to primary residences or essential community services, were significantly damaged by the storm, and have not already been repaired. To receive reimbursement, governments must have the roads and bridges inspected by official representatives, ensure the pathways remain open during repair work, document all costs according to FEMA policy, obtain proper permissions, and comply with all applicable state and federal regulations. The bill also provides flexibility for individuals who previously received disaster assistance, allowing them to either proceed with repairs using existing aid (without it counting against their assistance limit) or return previous aid to qualify for this new reimbursement pathway. Importantly, cost estimates for repairs must be prepared and certified by professionally licensed engineers and accepted by FEMA, with those certified estimates presumed reasonable unless fraud is demonstrated.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/760/all-info