Extreme Weather and Heat Response Modernization Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Titus, Dina [D-NV-1]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 30, 2025
Bottom line
H.R. 3661 aims to enhance FEMA's capacity to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to a broader range of complex and extreme weather events, with a specific focus on heat and cold, by updating policies, guidance, and eligible projects.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to modernize its approach to disaster response and mitigation, particularly concerning extreme weather events. It mandates the creation of an advisory panel to review and improve the determination of "incident periods" for various disaster types, leading to new regulations. Additionally, it expands FEMA's eligibility criteria for preparedness and mitigation projects to include extreme heat and cold, encourages the establishment of community cooling and resilience centers, and requires FEMA to issue comprehensive guidance and conduct a study on the impacts of extreme temperatures.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill is a crucial step towards modernizing FEMA's disaster response capabilities in the face of increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events, including heat waves and freezes. They contend that current frameworks may not adequately address slow-onset, compound, or cascading disasters, and that explicit guidance and funding eligibility for extreme temperature mitigation are urgently needed to protect vulnerable communities and infrastructure.
Opponents contend
While direct opposition to improving disaster response is uncommon, potential critics might argue that the bill adds new bureaucratic layers through advisory panels and studies, which could slow down rather than streamline FEMA's operations. Concerns could also be raised about the potential costs associated with expanding eligible mitigation projects and the administrative burden on FEMA without corresponding increases in funding or personnel.
The bill is concise and clearly structured, making it accessible for a quick but informed read, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2(a)-(f)
Establishment of Advisory Panel for Incident Period Review
This provision directs FEMA to create an advisory panel of emergency management experts within six months. This panel will review how FEMA defines "incident periods" for disasters, considering complex scenarios like slow-onset or cascading events. The panel will then provide recommendations, leading to reports to Congress and new regulations to update these definitions.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that modernizing incident period definitions is essential to ensure FEMA's policies accurately reflect the evolving nature of disasters, especially those exacerbated by climate change. They contend that current definitions may not adequately cover complex events, leading to gaps in assistance.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against improving disaster declaration processes, though some might express concern about the time and resources required for such a comprehensive review and rulemaking process, potentially diverting resources from immediate response needs.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between maintaining clear, consistent disaster declaration criteria and adapting to the increasing complexity and variability of modern disaster events, which may not fit traditional definitions.
Section 3(a)
Inclusion of Extreme Heat and Cold Mitigation in FEMA Programs
This section authorizes FEMA to consider new types of projects eligible for federal mitigation and preparedness funding under the Stafford Act. Specifically, it includes projects aimed at reducing the impacts of extreme heat (like stockpiling cooling equipment or emergency voucher programs) and extreme cold. It also explicitly allows for funding the establishment and operation of community cooling centers and resilience centers.
Section 4
Mandate for FEMA Guidance on Extreme Heat and Cold
This provision requires FEMA to issue new guidance within one year on extreme temperature events, including heat waves and freezes. This guidance will be incorporated into key FEMA documents like the Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide, and will cover hazard mitigation eligibility, planning, and various national preparedness and response frameworks.
Section 5
FEMA Study on Extreme Heat and Cold Impacts and Mitigation
This section mandates that FEMA conduct a comprehensive study within one year to assess the impacts of extreme heat and cold and recommend guidance for mitigation and response. The study must examine effects on disadvantaged communities, infrastructure, health, and livestock, evaluate regional differences, and assess emergency alert effectiveness. It also requires developing guidance for first responder training and incorporating extreme temperatures into local and state emergency plans.