To amend the Small Business Act to modify application deadlines and communication requirements for certain disaster assistance, and for other purposes.
INTRO MAY 21· LAST ACTION MAY 21
READING
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Introduced only
LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS
STEP 2 / 8
Introduced
In Committee
Reported
Passed House
Passed Senate
Conference
To President
Became Law
WHAT THE BILL DOES
AI-written
This bill matters because major disasters often create incredibly difficult circumstances, making it hard for victims to focus on bureaucratic tasks like filling out applications on time. Currently, missing a deadline can mean losing out on vital federal aid for recovery. This bill provides a critical safety net, ensuring that those genuinely overwhelmed by disaster still have a chance to get the help they need.
If this bill becomes law, more disaster victims might successfully access loans to rebuild their homes or businesses, contributing to faster and more complete community recovery. If it doesn't pass, many individuals and small businesses could continue to be denied aid simply because they couldn't meet a deadline during a period of extreme stress and displacement.
KEY PROVISIONS
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PROVISION 01
Allows the Small Business Administration (SBA) to accept late applications for disaster relief loans if the applicant can demonstrate 'good cause' for the delay.
This provides a crucial safety net for disaster victims who might miss initial deadlines due to the chaotic aftermath of a major disaster.
PROVISION 02
Extends the period during which the SBA must provide information related to disaster assistance application deadlines by an additional 60 days.
This ensures that information about disaster aid remains accessible for a longer duration, helping more people learn about and apply for assistance.
PROVISION 03
Requires the SBA to communicate information about disaster assistance directly to the offices of Members of Congress whose districts are impacted by a major disaster.
This improves local outreach and ensures that community leaders are well-informed to guide their constituents toward available resources.
IN COMMITTEE· 119TH CONGRESS · SMALL BUSINESS COMMITTEE · INTRODUCED MAY 21, 2025
House BillHR 3556Commerce
To amend the Small Business Act to modify application deadlines and communication requirements for certain disaster assistance, and for other purposes.
This bill matters because major disasters often create incredibly difficult circumstances, making it hard for victims to focus on bureaucratic tasks like filling out applications on time. Currently, missing a deadline can mean losing out on vital federal aid for recovery. This bill provides a critical safety net, ensuring that those genuinely overwhelmed by disaster still have a chance to get the help they need.
If this bill becomes law, more disaster victims might successfully access loans to rebuild their homes or businesses, contributing to faster and more complete community recovery. If it doesn't pass, many individuals and small businesses could continue to be denied aid simply because they couldn't meet a deadline during a period of extreme stress and displacement.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
Allows the Small Business Administration (SBA) to accept late applications for disaster relief loans if the applicant can demonstrate 'good cause' for the delay.
This provides a crucial safety net for disaster victims who might miss initial deadlines due to the chaotic aftermath of a major disaster.
med
Extends the period during which the SBA must provide information related to disaster assistance application deadlines by an additional 60 days.
This ensures that information about disaster aid remains accessible for a longer duration, helping more people learn about and apply for assistance.
med
Requires the SBA to communicate information about disaster assistance directly to the offices of Members of Congress whose districts are impacted by a major disaster.
This improves local outreach and ensures that community leaders are well-informed to guide their constituents toward available resources.
GLOSSARY
AI-written
Small Business Act
The federal law that authorizes and governs the programs and operations of the Small Business Administration (SBA), including disaster assistance.
Administrator (SBA)
Refers to the head of the Small Business Administration, who is responsible for overseeing its operations and programs.
Major Disaster
A natural catastrophe or other event that has been officially declared a 'major disaster' by the President, making affected areas eligible for federal assistance.
Disaster relief
Aid provided by the government, typically in the form of loans or grants, to help individuals and businesses recover financially from a major disaster.
Good cause
A valid and reasonable justification for an action or a failure to act, such as missing a deadline due to circumstances beyond one's control.
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTS
MAY 21, 25
Introduced in House
INTROREFERRAL
MAY 21, 25
Referred to the House Committee on Small Business.