Support Federal Legislation to Establish National Disaster Safety Board

H.R.5532 - National Disaster Safety Board Act of 2021 is legilsaiton that would establish  National Disaster Safety Board that would conduct independent reviews of major disasters and recommend solutions to prevent tragic outcomes. It also would leverage the experience of local and state emergency managers to identify and elevate successes that can be replicated across the country. 

The bipartisan support for this bill demonstrates growing recognition that we must do a better job of learning from disasters if we are to prevent natural hazards like storms or wildfires from turning into human catastrophes. The National Disaster Safety Board could recommend changes in codes and standards, improvements to land use and hazard mitigation planning, or better resource allocations to serve the most vulnerable. 

Importantly, the Board would put special focus on assessing and addressing impacts to people of color, low-income people, those with disabilities, and others who are disproportionately affected by disasters. It also would provide guidance and technical assistance to carry out its recommendations and coordinate its efforts with government agencies, academic institutions, and professional organizations.