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119-hr-2408119th CongressWALLET

Protecting Local Communities from Harmful Algal Blooms Act

Sponsored By: Representative Buchanan, Vern [R-FL-16]

In Committee

Summary

Adds harmful algal blooms (HABs) to the Stafford Act's definition of major disasters. This would let events involving HABs that meet the law's criteria be designated for federal disaster relief and emergency assistance under the Stafford Act. Designations could use existing tools such as public assistance, individual assistance, and mitigation to respond to HAB-related harms.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Federal disaster aid for algal blooms

This bill would add harmful algal blooms to events that could be declared a major disaster. If the President declares the bloom a major disaster, FEMA could offer aid. Help could include emergency services, temporary housing, home repairs, and support for small businesses and local governments. The event would need to meet existing Stafford Act criteria. It would use current disaster programs, with no new funding streams. This would take effect upon enactment.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Buchanan, Vern [R-FL-16]

FL • R

Cosponsors

  • Rep. Soto, Darren [D-FL-9]

    FL • D

    Sponsored 3/27/2025

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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