Disaster Learning and Life Saving Act of 2021

Disaster Learning and Life Saving Act of 2021

This bill establishes within the executive branch a National Disaster Safety Board to study the underlying causes of disaster-related fatalities and property damage nationwide and make policy recommendations, and authorizes appropriations for the board through FY2025.

Specifically, the board shall review and establish the facts, circumstances, and cause or probable cause of the loss of life, human injury, and economic injury due to a natural hazard with 10 or more fatalities.

The board shall

• initiate a review of an incident by monitoring the situation and assessing available facts to determine the appropriate review response without interfering in any ongoing lifesaving and life sustaining efforts underway by other entities;
• disseminate best practices to develop disaster investigation and review capacity within state, tribal, and local governments; and
• establish an office to review and make recommendations to mitigate and prevent the loss of life, or human or economic injury, for vulnerable populations.

The Government Accountability Office shall audit the programs and expenditures of the board at least once every two years.

The bill defines natural hazard to mean a major disaster that is naturally occurring, to include any naturally occurring heat wave, storms, or wildfires, and to exclude a technological disaster.

Bill 117 HR 3624, also known as the Disaster Learning and Life Saving Act of 2021, aims to improve disaster preparedness and response in the United States. The bill focuses on enhancing education and training programs related to disaster management, as well as increasing resources for first responders and emergency personnel.

One key aspect of the bill is the establishment of a National Disaster Preparedness and Response Training Center, which would provide training and resources to individuals and organizations involved in disaster response efforts. This center would work to improve coordination and communication among different agencies and stakeholders involved in disaster response.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for increasing funding for disaster preparedness and response programs, as well as for conducting research on best practices in disaster management. This research would help to inform future policy decisions and improve the effectiveness of disaster response efforts. Overall, the Disaster Learning and Life Saving Act of 2021 aims to strengthen the nation's ability to respond to disasters and emergencies, ultimately saving lives and reducing the impact of natural and man-made disasters.