119th (2025–2027)
S. 5276
This bill modifies federal disaster relief rules to make it easier for communities to rebuild after major disasters. Specifically, it changes how long reconstruction workers can be paid with federal disaster funds, extending the eligibility period for wages paid to temporary workers handling building damage assessments from the current rules to 180 days after a disaster is declared. For other reconstruction activities related to building code enforcement, the bill allows recipients of federal disaster aid to claim worker wages for up to two years after a date they select, providing more flexibility in managing reconstruction timelines. The legislation affects state and local governments, disaster recovery agencies, and communities receiving federal assistance under the Stafford Disaster Relief Act. No new funding is authorized by the bill; rather, it adjusts how existing federal disaster assistance can be used to pay for reconstruction labor costs.