0
A bill to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to allow Indian tribal governments to directly request fire management assistance declarations and grants, and for other purposes.
2/7/2025, 11:56 AM
Summary of Bill S 443
This bill seeks to streamline the process for tribal governments to receive assistance for managing wildfires on their lands. By allowing them to directly request assistance, tribal governments can more effectively and efficiently respond to wildfires and protect their communities.
In addition to allowing direct requests for fire management assistance, the bill also includes provisions for grants to support tribal governments in their efforts to prevent and respond to wildfires. This funding will help tribal governments improve their fire management capabilities and better protect their lands and communities. Overall, the Tribal Disaster Assistance Act aims to empower Indian tribal governments to take control of their fire management efforts and ensure they have the resources and support needed to effectively respond to wildfires. This bill is an important step towards improving disaster response and resilience in tribal communities.
Congressional Summary of S 443
Fire Management Assistance Grants for Tribal Governments Act
This bill allows Indian tribal governments to directly participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program, as opposed to participating through states.
Currently, only states may submit requests to FEMA for declarations authorizing FMAG assistance, and Indian tribal governments affected by a fire must use a state’s authorization to receive FMAG assistance. The bill authorizes Indian tribal governments to submit FMAG declaration requests directly to FEMA and receive FMAG assistance under their own declarations. Indian tribal governments may still choose instead to receive FMAG assistance under an authorization requested by a state.
Also, the bill requires FEMA to update its FMAG regulations within one year after enactment to carry out the bill.
