Cedar Rapids Today

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson and Senator Tim Scott have introduced the bipartisan SBA Disaster Transparency Act, joined by Representative Salud Carbajal and ten other cosponsors. This legislation mandates the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide public reports on its Disaster Loan Account, akin to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) practice with its Disaster Relief Fund. The goal is to enhance accountability in federal disaster relief spending and offer Congress timely data for decision-making.

Rep. Hinson emphasized the importance of removing bureaucratic hurdles during disaster recovery, stating, "This commonsense bill will improve transparency and streamline recovery efforts through the SBA, ensuring more Americans can access critical relief funds when they need them most." She expressed gratitude for Senator Scott's leadership and her intention to collaborate with President Trump on improving disaster response.

Senator Tim Scott highlighted his experience witnessing Hurricane Helene's aftermath as motivation for supporting this reform. He remarked that "the SBA Disaster Transparency Act makes simple but necessary reforms" to enhance transparency and enable proactive congressional action.

Rep. Salud Carbajal stressed the significance of transparency in effective disaster relief programs, noting that timely assistance is vital for survivors. He committed to bipartisan collaboration to ensure communities receive necessary support during disasters.

The proposed legislation requires monthly public reports from the SBA detailing the Disaster Loan Account’s balance, obligations, and projections. It aims to align SBA practices with FEMA’s established transparency model while enhancing oversight and preparedness.

Original House co-sponsors include Representatives Salud Carbajal, Byron Donalds, Norma Torres, Chuck Edwards, Neal Dunn, Scott DesJarlais, Daniel Webster, Vern Buchanan, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Hal Rogers, and Tim Moore.