This bill creates a new commission made up of 15 members that will study how the federal government handles natural disasters—both preparing for them and recovering from them. The commission will be housed within the Office of Management and Budget, which is part of the executive branch that oversees federal spending and operations.

The commission's main job is to look at all the different federal programs and activities related to disaster resilience and recovery, then figure out what's working and what isn't. They'll talk to federal agencies to gather information and understand how the current system operates. Within two years of their first meeting, they have to write a report with their findings and recommendations for how the government can do better at preparing for disasters and helping communities bounce back afterward.

Essentially, this is about taking a step back and auditing the federal government's disaster response system. Instead of just continuing with existing programs, this commission will examine whether those programs are effective and suggest improvements. Once they submit their final report to Congress, the commission will dissolve 60 days later, so this is a temporary study group rather than a permanent agency.

Natural Disaster Resilience and Recovery Accountability Act

Lankford, James

Natural Disaster Resilience and Recovery Accountability ActThis bill establishes the Commission on Federal Natural Disaster Resilience and Recovery within the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to examine and recommend reforms to improve federal programs and activities relating to natural disaster resilience and recovery.OMB must appoint 15 members to serve on the commission. The bill requires federal agencies to advise the commission and furnish information upon request.&nbsp;The commission must hold its first meeting within 240 days after the bill’s enactment. Within two years after its first meeting, the commission must submit a final report to Congress. The report must provide recommendations to improve the federal government’s approach to natural disaster resilience and recovery, including program evaluation and specific policy recommendations. The commission terminates 60 days after it submits the final report.