S. 4388: Housing Survivors of Major Disasters Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Housing Survivors of Major Disasters Act of 2026, aims to provide financial assistance and support to individuals and households affected by major disasters, specifically those who may not have formal ownership of their homes but still need help after a disaster is declared. Here are the key components of the bill:

Eligibility for Disaster Assistance

The bill allows certain individuals and households to be eligible for disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under existing law. Eligibility includes:

• Individuals or households residing on a property in a disaster area without documented ownership rights or rental agreements
• Individuals who are or were residing in the disaster area during the incident period, including those experiencing homelessness or living in various temporary accommodations, like travel trailers or mobile homes

Financial Assistance Details

The bill specifies that the assistance can cover costs related to obtaining property titles, including:

• Land surveys
• Taxes and fees required for title acquisition

Evidence of Occupancy

When determining eligibility, FEMA may consider various forms of evidence that demonstrate a claimant's resident status or constructive ownership of the property. Acceptable forms of evidence include:

• Utility bills with the individual's name and address
• Pay stubs from employers
• Rental agreements or payment receipts
• Medical records or school registrations
• Any other documentation that can reasonably link the individual to the property

Declarative Statements for Assistance

The bill mandates that FEMA creates and distributes a declarative statement form to allow applicants to self-certify their eligibility for assistance without the need for notarization. Additionally, the form must be available in multiple languages, including Spanish, at disaster recovery centers.

Appeals Process

For individuals who have applied for disaster assistance since January 1, 2017, the bill provides at least 180 days to appeal any determinations made regarding their eligibility or assistance.

Funding for Repair and Rebuilding

The bill proposes amendments to existing regulations regarding the funding of repairs and rebuilding after disasters. It states that aid should be aimed at making residences habitable during the recovery period and may involve coordination with other sources for rebuilding.

Collaboration with Housing Authorities

FEMA is directed to consult with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) about implementing a disaster housing assistance program to provide temporary rental assistance for individuals displaced by major disasters, specifically those eligible under the new provisions of this bill.

Implementation Timeline

The bill requires that various actions, such as creating the declarative statement form and notifying FEMA employees about the new requirements, be completed within 30 days of the bill's enactment.

Publicity and Outreach

FEMA is tasked with notifying the public about the new assistance programs and ensuring that relevant materials are widely accessible.

Previous Disasters

Assistance provisions also apply retroactively to individuals affected by disasters that occurred since January 1, 2017, enhancing access to needed support for past incidents.

Relevant Companies

None found.