Caucus targets disaster preparedness, recovery initiatives

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) has joined three House of Representatives colleagues in forming a caucus that targets disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.

Mace recently joined Reps. Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) and Joe Neguse (D-CO) in launching the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus, which aims to advance legislation and policies providing efficient, equitable relief for disaster survivors while promoting bills addressing recovery.

“In a coastal district like mine, natural disasters are an inevitable part of life,” Mace said. “As coastal areas face increased risks from flooding and sea level rise, we must take preemptive steps to prepare and protect our most vulnerable communities. This caucus will serve as an important bipartisan platform to ensure our nation is prepared for and able to recover from natural disasters whenever and wherever they strike.”

Advocacy for disaster preparedness programming to aid in saving lives will also be among the caucus concerns, officials noted.

“Disasters don’t recognize borders or political party, and neither should our nation’s disaster preparedness or recovery system,” Carter said. “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.”

Gimenez said the caucus would serve as a tool in crafting legislation to better protect communities prone to natural disasters.

“Advocating for crucial funding and programs through the caucus will fortify our ability to keep south Florida the greatest place to live, work and raise a family,” he said.