Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance Act
Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance Act
Plain Language Summary
# Summary of HR 1342: Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance Act **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would add political affiliation to the list of protected categories in federal disaster relief programs. Currently, FEMA and other organizations distributing disaster assistance are prohibited from discriminating based on race, religion, gender, disability, and several other characteristics. If passed, the bill would make it illegal for them to deny or provide unequal assistance based on a person's political beliefs or party affiliation. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The bill would apply to FEMA and any public or private organizations involved in providing federal disaster aid.
It would affect disaster victims seeking federal assistance and the agencies administering relief funds. The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. No action has been taken since its introduction in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance ActThis bill prohibits discrimination on the basis of political affiliation by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other participating entities (i.e., public or private entities providing or receiving assistance) in carrying out federal major disaster or emergency relief and assistance activities.Current law requires FEMA and other participating entities to provide federal major disaster or emergency relief and assistance without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. The bill adds political affiliation to the classes protected under this requirement.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.