Don’t Penalize Victims Act
The Don't Penalize Victims Act would modify the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act by changing the rules on duplication of benefits. Specifically, it would strike the words “or any other source” from Section 312(a) of the Act. In practical terms, this narrows or alters the current prohibition on receiving multiple forms of disaster aid from different sources for the same loss. The bill has only a single, targeted change and does not create new programs or funding. It was introduced in the House on March 21, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Because the text provided only includes this one amendment, the bill’s overall effect is limited to how duplication of benefits is interpreted and enforced under Section 312(a). The bill’s title signals a pro-victim intent, aiming to avoid penalizing disaster victims who obtain relief from multiple, legitimate sources.
Key Points
- 1Short title: The bill is named the “Don’t Penalize Victims Act.”
- 2Core change: It amends Section 312(a) of the Stafford Act by striking the words “or any other source” from the duplication of benefits provision.
- 3Scope of change: The adjustment is limited to the duplication-of-benefits rule in the Stafford Act; no new programs, funding, or broader policy changes are specified.
- 4Administrative impact: Agencies administering disaster relief would need to adjust guidance reflecting the narrower or differently framed duplication-of-benefits rule.
- 5Legislative status: Introduced in the House on March 21, 2025; referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. No Senate action or final passage is recorded in the provided text.