H.R. 3177: To require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ensure that cost estimates, acquisition of proper materials, and any other activity related to certain projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act are performed by professionals licensed in the relevant State, and for other purposes.

This bill mandates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) must ensure that certain activities related to disaster relief projects are carried out by professionals who are properly licensed in the relevant state. These activities fall under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Key Provisions

• Utilization of Licensed Professionals: FEMA must employ or contract licensed professionals to perform any covered activity associated with disaster relief projects.
• Approval and Consent: FEMA cannot disapprove plans, material suggestions, or direct purchases proposed by licensed professionals without their consent. All purchases suggested by these professionals must also be approved by FEMA.
• Acceptance of Plans: Plans and materials proposed by licensed professionals cannot be rejected unless there is clear evidence of fraud.
• Contracting Processes: States or local governments can suggest contracts with licensed professionals, which FEMA cannot reject or impede.
• State Responsibility: It is the state’s responsibility to hire an appropriately licensed professional to develop the scope of work for these activities.
• FEMA Employee Requirement: Employees of FEMA who manage rebuilding projects must be licensed professionals.
• Regulatory Updates: FEMA is required to update any regulations or policies necessary to implement these requirements.

Definitions

• Appropriately Licensed Professional: This refers to individuals employed by FEMA or contracted by state/local governments who are also licensed in the state for relevant professions, such as engineers or architects.
• Covered Activity: Includes preparing cost estimates and purchasing materials necessary for disaster relief projects.

Projects Covered

The activities outlined in the bill are specifically related to projects that receive assistance under sections 406 or 428 of the Stafford Act, which generally deals with public assistance for disaster recovery and repair efforts.

Implementation

The bill requires FEMA to ensure compliance with these provisions and make necessary changes to its practices and procedures to align with the new legislative requirements.

Relevant Companies

None found.