Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Bipartisan HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R. 9992, the HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act, which would facilitate disaster relief information sharing between Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Small Business Administration (SBA). This bipartisan legislation is co-led by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07).
“In the wake of Hurricane Helene, it became clear that we need better coordination between agencies to get disaster assistance to communities faster,” said Congressman Tim Moore. “The GAO and HUD’s Inspector General have identified serious challenges with data sharing, duplication-of-benefits determinations, and improper payments. This legislation strengthens transparency and coordination between agencies, helping reduce waste, fraud, and abuse while ensuring disaster relief gets to folks more efficiently.”
“Each year, families across the country face more frequent and more intense severe weather and natural disasters. In Colorado, we recently saw historic fires sweep across the state, destroying homes, communities, and lives. It’s important that we have an all-hands-on deck approach to how we respond to these disasters so communities can rebuild,” said Rep. Brittany Pettersen. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Moore. Our bill lays out a clearer path for how HUD can work seamlessly with FEMA and the SBA to support families and businesses when a disaster strikes. When Americans are facing their hardest moments, they deserve to know that their government is responsive and standing with them.”
Specifically, the HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act would require HUD to enter into a memorandum of understanding with FEMA and SBA to share disaster relief data to improve efficiency and mitigate waste, fraud, and abuse. HUD would be required to submit a report to Congress on the increased collaboration between the agencies and the effectiveness of the enhanced information sharing.
Read the full text of the bill HERE.