Pappas Helps Advance Legislation to Help Rural Communities Access Federal Disaster Aid to House Floor

Press Release

Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), an original co-sponsor of the bipartisan Small State and Rural Rescue Act, released the following statement after the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee advanced this to the House Floor:

"Natural disasters, especially the severe flooding on New Hampshire's Seacoast, are costing the state more each year. Rural communities are especially vulnerable and this bipartisan bill will ensure that they are fairly treated," said Congressman Chris Pappas, "It's of the utmost importance that our communities have the resources to recover from disasters quickly. This bipartisan bill will allow FEMA to work with state and local officials when assessing disaster impact and cut through red tape, making it easier for Granite Staters to access FEMA aid. I'm pleased to see it advance out of committee today."

Small states and rural communities often struggle to access federal disaster aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They face obstacles in demonstrating the severe localized impact of disasters and are underserved by existing relief programs. The Small State and Rural Rescue Act would expand and codify the responsibilities of FEMA's Small State and Rural Advocate when helping state and local officials access federal disaster aid. The bill would also direct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a review on how FEMA mobilizes individual assistance in the aftermath of a disaster.

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