Lincoln Chafee: “Today, at the administration's request, I am introducing the Disaster Mitigation Act of 1999. This bill is designed to…”

“Today, at the administration's request, I am introducing the Disaster Mitigation Act of 1999. This bill is designed to promote pre-disaster mitigation and streamline the operations of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Last year, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, which has oversight over FEMA, considered S. 2361, legislation authored by Senators Inhofe and Graham that was based in part on the administration's 1997 proposal. While S. 2361 was reported by the committee, it was not considered by the Senate before it adjourned last November. I believe it makes sense for Congress and FEMA to pay attention to pre-disaster mitigation efforts--i.e., the steps that can be taken before a disaster strikes. It also makes sense for us to ensure that FEMA's operations are streamlined so that the administering of disaster relief proceeds as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Taking these steps not only would be easier on the budget, but also would help prevent needless human suffering. It is my hope that working with the administration, we will be able to craft legislation that will accomplish our goals.”