Senate advances disaster recovery assistance application measure

U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI), Rand Paul (R-KY), and James Lankford (R-OK) are commending their colleagues for advancing their legislation that would simplify the federal disaster recovery assistance application process.

Specifically, the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a universal application across federal agencies for those seeking federal assistance to recover from natural disasters that include severe storms, floods and wildfires.

The present platform calls for those seeking disaster recovery assistance to complete separate and detailed applications depending on the agency they are addressing for help. The process can take weeks or even months.

“People in Michigan and across the nation whose lives have been upended by natural disasters should have a straightforward process to access federal assistance,” Peters said. “By creating one universal application to get federal help to recover from natural disasters, this bipartisan legislation will reduce the burden on disaster survivors who seek help to rebuild their lives.”

Paul said over the past few years, Kentucky has endured several deadly tornadoes and flash floods, resulting in significant damage while displacing thousands.

“Many impacted have expressed challenges in receiving quick assistance and updates from government agencies,” Paul said. “As part of my commitment to always put Kentuckians first, I’m proud to cosponsor the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, which will reduce the burden on disaster survivors by ensuring the process of receiving aid is simple and speedy.”

Lankford said the federal government has a unique role in providing timely disaster assistance to families and businesses.

“Our proposal creates one online application portal to use across federal agencies to ensure disaster victims can easily apply for assistance on their phone or tablet while they clean up,” Lankford said.