H.R.1593 - Disaster Displacement Assistance Improvement Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1593, the Disaster Displacement Assistance Improvement Act of 2025, aims to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The amendment would prohibit the President from considering insurance benefits as a duplication of benefits when determining eligibility for displacement assistance. This bill focuses on ensuring that individuals displaced by disasters can access housing assistance without having their insurance coverage negatively impacting their eligibility.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would change how displacement assistance is administered after a disaster. Specifically, insured individuals would be able to receive federal displacement assistance (e.g., hotel stays) without their insurance coverage reducing their eligibility. This could lead to more people receiving timely assistance after a disaster.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Access to Assistance: More disaster victims would be eligible for displacement assistance.
- Reduced Financial Burden: Individuals wouldn't have to exhaust insurance benefits before receiving aid.
- Faster Recovery: Quicker access to housing assistance can speed up the recovery process.
- Equity: Ensures that having insurance doesn't penalize disaster victims needing immediate housing.
- Simplification: Streamlines the application process by removing insurance considerations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: The government may spend more on disaster assistance.
- Possible Fraud: Could create opportunities for individuals to exploit the system.
- Strain on Resources: Increased demand for assistance could strain available resources.
- Unintended Consequences: May disincentivize individuals from obtaining adequate insurance coverage.
- Administrative Burden: Requires FEMA to adjust its policies and procedures.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to provide assistance to those affected by disasters. Specifically, the preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". Congress has the power to legislate in areas of disaster relief under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8), to execute its enumerated powers, including providing for the common defense and general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional right or limitation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).