Bill > HR3177

This bill requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator to ensure that professionals licensed in the relevant state perform specific tasks related to disaster relief and rebuilding projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The bill mandates that any cost estimates, material acquisitions, and other project-related activities for disaster recovery projects must be done by "appropriately licensed professionals," which are defined as individuals licensed in the state where the project will occur, such as engineers, architects, builders, or tradespeople. FEMA cannot disapprove plans, rebuilding proposals, or material suggestions without the direct consent of a licensed professional, and must approve purchases suggested by such professionals. The bill also stipulates that FEMA cannot reject plans, projects, or materials proposed by licensed professionals unless fraud can be clearly demonstrated. Additionally, states are responsible for hiring these licensed professionals to develop project scopes, and FEMA employees directly managing rebuilding projects must themselves be appropriately licensed. The goal of the bill appears to be ensuring higher quality, more professional oversight in disaster recovery efforts by mandating state-licensed professional involvement in key decision-making and implementation processes.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3177/all-info