Bill would let Congress override presidential disaster denials
In committeeH.R. 8577Latest action
Sponsor: Raja Krishnamoorthi · Representative · IL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: To provide for a procedure for Congress to carry out a reversal of a decision by the President not to declare a major disaster requested by the Governor of a State under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, and for other purposes.
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Congress could override a presidential refusal of a state disaster declaration, especially if that refusal conflicts with FEMA's recommendation.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill gives Congress a way to reverse a presidential decision to deny a governor's request for a major disaster declaration. If the president refuses, he must send Congress a written explanation within 24 hours. Congress could then use a fast-tracked , with strict time limits in both chambers, to force the disaster declaration through.
Who does it affect?
This affects state governments seeking federal disaster aid and residents of states that have been denied disaster declarations. It also shifts the balance of authority between the president and Congress over federal disaster relief decisions.
Why does it matter?
Without this bill, the president's decision to deny a disaster declaration is final, with no formal congressional check. This bill creates a process that could result in a declaration being issued even after a presidential refusal.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 29, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Apr 29, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.