Brett Thompson outlines Storm Act funding timeline for Nevada program
May 26, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
In a recent meeting of the Assembly Committee on Government Affairs, significant discussions centered around the implementation of a new program funded under the federal Storm Act. This initiative aims to assist jurisdictions in covering their financial obligations related to disaster recovery, specifically addressing the 25% match required for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding.
Brett Thompson, a key presenter, clarified that the program is set to launch in November 2025, with the first employee expected to be hired around that time. The timeline for applying for federal funds is projected for the spring of 2027, following a competitive process that will take place in the fall of 2026. This timeline is crucial as it aligns with the expiration of the initial allocation of Storm Act funds in 2026, raising concerns about the program's sustainability beyond that date.
Assembly member Flanagan raised important questions regarding the program's future, particularly the potential for federal renewal of the Storm Act funding. Thompson expressed hope that the program would continue, emphasizing that without establishing the program now, future funding opportunities could be jeopardized.
The committee also discussed staffing needs for the program. Thompson indicated that a temporary employee has been budgeted for the next biennium to help set up the program, with plans to convert this position to full-time if the program is successful.
The meeting also included a hearing on Senate Bill 39, which saw no public testimony in support, opposition, or neutral positions, indicating a lack of community engagement or concern regarding this specific legislation.
As the committee moves forward, the establishment of the Storm Act program will be closely monitored, particularly as it relates to the anticipated federal funding and its implications for disaster recovery efforts in Nevada. The next steps will involve finalizing the program setup and preparing for the upcoming application process, which will be critical for securing necessary resources for the state.
Brett Thompson, a key presenter, clarified that the program is set to launch in November 2025, with the first employee expected to be hired around that time. The timeline for applying for federal funds is projected for the spring of 2027, following a competitive process that will take place in the fall of 2026. This timeline is crucial as it aligns with the expiration of the initial allocation of Storm Act funds in 2026, raising concerns about the program's sustainability beyond that date.
Assembly member Flanagan raised important questions regarding the program's future, particularly the potential for federal renewal of the Storm Act funding. Thompson expressed hope that the program would continue, emphasizing that without establishing the program now, future funding opportunities could be jeopardized.
The committee also discussed staffing needs for the program. Thompson indicated that a temporary employee has been budgeted for the next biennium to help set up the program, with plans to convert this position to full-time if the program is successful.
The meeting also included a hearing on Senate Bill 39, which saw no public testimony in support, opposition, or neutral positions, indicating a lack of community engagement or concern regarding this specific legislation.
As the committee moves forward, the establishment of the Storm Act program will be closely monitored, particularly as it relates to the anticipated federal funding and its implications for disaster recovery efforts in Nevada. The next steps will involve finalizing the program setup and preparing for the upcoming application process, which will be critical for securing necessary resources for the state.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting