Florida Rep. Greg Steube and Louisiana Rep. Troy Carter have introduced legislation designed to ensure FEMA reimburses municipalities for clearing storm debris from private communities such as condominiums, manufactured home parks, and homeowners’ associations.

The Clean Up Disasters and Emergencies with Better Recovery and Immediate Support Act would address FEMA’s current ability to deny reimbursement to local governments that remove storm debris from private roads in these communities.

Dawn Bauman, CEO of the Community Associations Institute, which supports the legislation, noted that private roads still serve as essential access points. When debris blocks these routes, residents and emergency vehicles cannot enter or exit, creating public safety concerns.

Following last year’s hurricanes, some Florida localities instructed private communities to move debris to public rights of way for removal. Other communities experienced delays or outright refusals from local governments, leaving residents responsible for removal costs.

The bill was introduced after hurricane season ended on November 30.

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