Bill > S378

This bill authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator to waive or reduce certain environmental and historic preservation requirements for specific disaster recovery projects, known as "covered projects," which involve property acquisition, structure demolition, or relocation. These projects must be funded through disaster relief programs like the Stafford Disaster Relief Act or flood mitigation assistance programs. Before waiving requirements, the Administrator must consult with state and local officials within 30 days and consider factors such as the project's impact on community recovery, potential environmental issues, and whether the property has lost its historic preservation value. The bill covers a wide range of environmental regulations, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, and others. The Administrator is required to submit annual reports to congressional committees detailing the reasons for waivers, how they expedited the property acquisition process, and recommendations for additional waiver authorities. The goal is to streamline and accelerate hazard mitigation and disaster recovery efforts by reducing bureaucratic barriers while still maintaining some environmental and historical considerations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/378/all-info