Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Disaster Recovery Reform Act. This bill, which is expected to pass the Senate and be signed into law in the coming days, will help communities better mitigate against and respond to disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) has been fighting for this legislation to better prepare for and prevent disasters like the Thomas Fire.
“Our community was tested during the Thomas Fire, and while we are on the road to recovery, we must remain vigilant and ensure we are planning ahead because we don’t know when another disaster may strike,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I am pleased the House passed this important legislation, which will help communities like ours fight wildfires and also recover and rebuild after natural disasters. By focusing on funds for preventative mitigation measures, this will help save money, and more importantly, lives.”
Congresswoman Brownley co-authored an August 2018 VC Star op-ed with Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, in support of the bill.