# Summary of S. 3338 — Disaster Learning and Life Saving Act of 2023
This bill establishes a new independent National Disaster Safety Board within the federal government to investigate natural disasters and issue recommendations to prevent future loss of life and injuries. The Board will review natural disasters that cause 10 or more fatalities, though it can also investigate smaller incidents at the request of state or local officials, or if the disaster affects vulnerable populations. The Board operates similarly to the National Transportation Safety Board but focuses exclusively on natural hazards like hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and earthquakes rather than transportation accidents.
The Board will consist of seven members appointed by the President with Senate confirmation, selected from nominees provided by congressional leaders. Members must have expertise in emergency management, public health, engineering, or related fields, and at least two must have experience working with historically vulnerable populations. The Board will conduct fact-finding reviews without assigning blame, issue recommendations to relevant agencies, track implementation, and publish annual reports on findings and trends.
The bill authorizes $25 million for fiscal year 2024, increasing to $60 million by 2027. Federal agencies have 90 days to respond to Board recommendations, and the Board must complete most reviews within one year. The legislation includes protections for sensitive information like trade secrets and recordings, establishes an office to specifically address impacts on vulnerable communities, and requires the Board to coordinate with other federal disaster agencies to avoid duplication of effort.
Take Action
Your position
Add a comment
to comment on this bill.
Annotate the text
Highlight any passage on the Summary or Full Text tab to attach a note. Annotations appear on the Annotations tab.