Proposed bill would add extreme heat to list of major disaster qualifying events

Given the sweeping implications of extreme heat on vulnerable populations, public health and local infrastructure, advocates are calling on the Biden Administration to pass the Extreme Heat Emergency Act of 2023, which was introduced to Congress last month by U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (Ariz.-3). 
“Every summer, we are experiencing hotter and longer heat waves in the valley,” Gallego said. “Despite the too-often deadly effects of this heat, Arizonans are left to deal with the impacts themselves, and it is draining their resources. By adding extreme heat to the list of major disasters, my bill will help provide Arizona with the federal assistance and resources they need.”

Phoenix, Ariz. recently experienced 31 straight days of heat topping 110 degrees. And on July 27, a brief from the National League of Cities notes that nearly half the United States’ population was under heat alerts. 

If passed, the measure would add extreme heat to the list of major disaster qualifying events.  

“This crucial legislation, which proposes amending the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to add extreme heat events to the list of major disasters, holds immense significance for our communities and their well-being,” wrote Clarence Anthony, CEO and executive director of the National League of Cities in a letter to Congress supporting passage of Gallego’s bill. “This act will grant the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authority to provide crucial resources and support to local governments in times of crisis. This, in turn, will enhance their capacity to safeguard residents more effectively during heatwaves and promote a safer and more resilient environment.”

Importantly, the legislation would enable local governments to expand cooling centers during extreme heat waves, Anthony wrote. He noted the centers are vital refuges that provide life-saving protection for at-risk people, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions. 

The bill also allows administrators to care for homeless people by offering “critical support” to shelters, and offer assistance to hospitals and healthcare facilities. 

“With federal disaster assistance funding and resources, cities will be better equipped to provide shelters with proper cooling facilities, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of our communities have a safe space to go when there are scorching temperatures,” Anthony wrote. “Federal assistance for these measures will significantly contribute to the safety, health, and resilience of our communities in the face of escalating heat- related challenges.”

The current list of disasters that can trigger a major disaster declaration includes hurricanes, tornados, storms, high water, wind-driven water, tidal waves, tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, mudslides, snowstorms, and droughts.