Don’t Penalize Victims Act

Hozzl · 2025-04-18T08:05:35Z

Explore the details of House Bill 2254 Don’t Penalize Victims Act currently in Congress. Get insights into its purpose, current status, sponsors, and potential impact on undefined. Stay informed on legislative developments.

4/18/2025, 8:05 AM

Summary of Bill HR 2254

Bill 119 HR 2254, also known as the "Duplication of Benefits Reform Act," aims to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act in order to address issues related to duplication of benefits in disaster relief efforts.

The bill seeks to make changes that will prevent individuals affected by disasters from receiving duplicate assistance from both federal and state agencies. This is important in order to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to those in need.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that will streamline the process for individuals to access disaster relief funds, making it easier for them to receive the assistance they require in a timely manner. Overall, the Duplication of Benefits Reform Act is designed to improve the effectiveness of disaster relief efforts and ensure that resources are used wisely to help those impacted by natural disasters.

Congressional Summary of HR 2254

Don’t Penalize Victims Act

This bill enables persons receiving funds from a federal disaster assistance program to also receive funds for that same purpose from any other source except for another federal program or insurance.

Under current law, federal agencies providing financial assistance for losses resulting from a major disaster or emergency are prohibited from allowing recipients to receive other funds for that same purpose from any other source. Persons seeking federal disaster assistance must report the availability or receipt of duplicative funds and federal agencies will reduce the amount of disaster assistance accordingly to prevent a duplication of benefits.

The bill narrows the duplication restriction to apply only to funds from other federal programs or insurance, so federal agencies providing disaster assistance may allow recipients to also receive funds for that same purpose from any other sources (e.g., charitable gifts, legal claims).

Read the Full Bill

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Current Status of Bill HR 2254

Bill HR 2254 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 21, 2025. Bill HR 2254 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on March 21, 2025. Bill HR 2254's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. as of March 21, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2254

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2254

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2254

To amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to make certain changes with respect to duplication of benefits, and for other purposes.

Comments

Roland Baxter

645

10 months ago

I am deeply concerned about this bill and how it may impact victims like myself. It is unjust to penalize those who have already suffered enough. This bill does not provide the necessary support and resources for victims to heal and move forward. It is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of victims and ensure they are not further harmed by this legislation. It is clear that this bill does not benefit victims, but rather puts them at a disadvantage.