This bill amends federal disaster relief law to create new programs and streamline assistance for states, tribal governments, and individuals recovering from major disasters. It establishes a Natural Disaster Recovery Reserve Fund to help cover unmet needs like housing repair, debris removal, and economic recovery, with grantees given more flexibility to decide how to spend funds and up to 13% allowed for administrative costs, though funds must generally be used within six years (extendable by four more). It also creates a separate "unmet needs assistance" grant program funded by setting aside 10% of certain disaster relief grants, expands FEMA's ability to make minor home repairs so survivors can shelter in place, extends the period individuals can receive temporary housing assistance from 18 to 24 months, and requires FEMA to share more information with applicants who appeal benefit denials. The legislation affects disaster survivors, state and tribal governments, and FEMA operations, directing the agency to give more weight to communities hit repeatedly by disasters over a five-year period when making disaster declarations. Several reporting and oversight requirements are included, such as a report to Congress within 180 days on disaster assistance processes, a GAO review of state fiscal controls within five years, and a GAO study within one year on how long it takes to officially close out disaster declarations.
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