Two Disaster Recovery Bills and A Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus Announced by Congressmembers

National / Washington D.C. / Louisiana – Congressmen Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL), Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Nancy Mace (R-SC) announced the launch of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus on July 27, 2022. This caucus is devoted to working across the aisle to achieve legislation and policies that offer quick, fair aid to catastrophe survivors while also promoting measures that pave the way for afflicted communities to fully recover. The caucus will also push for disaster preparedness measures and initiatives that save lives while also preparing America’s communities for future calamities.

The co-chairs of this caucus represent regions that have experienced a wide range of natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, and flooding, and have all personally navigated the disaster recovery process for their districts. They are banding together from across the political spectrum and across the country to advocate for stronger and more efficient disaster preparedness and recovery systems.

“Disasters don’t recognize borders or political party, and neither should our nation’s disaster preparedness or recovery system,” said Congressman Carter. “As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity due to climate change, we need to work together to strengthen our systems and save lives. I am proud to join with my fellow co-chairs to launch this bipartisan caucus that is committed to advocating for effective preparedness and recovery measures and programs that best serve the American people and don’t leave anyone behind.”

“The creation of the new Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus will serve as a phenomenal tool in crafting legislation to better protect our communities prone to natural disasters,” said Congressman Gimenez. “South Florida remains a high-risk area for flooding and storm damage. Advocating for crucial funding and programs through the caucus will fortify our ability to keeping South Florida the greatest place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Several organizations have also expressed their support for the formation of this caucus.

Congressman Carter and fellow co-chairs filed two bipartisan disaster recovery measures today to coincide with the introduction of the Bipartisan Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus.

“The Delivering Equity and Justice for Disaster Survivors Act of 2022” would establish a Disaster Equity and Justice Subcommittee within FEMA to help amplify the voices, needs, and experiences of disaster survivors. This legislation was also endorsed by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF).

“The Office of Disaster Recovery Act” directs the Secretary of Commerce to create an Office of Disaster Recovery to support and coordinate economic recuperation for communities after a natural disaster. This legislation was endorsed by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).