Findings

Congress finds the following: (1) Natural disasters cause significant damage to communities and infrastructure, requiring rapid and efficient recovery efforts. (2) Timely repair and restoration of damaged property and assets after a natural disaster are essential for public safety, economic stability, and the swift return of private property to rightful owners. (3) The Corps of Engineers nationwide permit program serves as an efficient mechanism for managing activities that involve discharges into and rehabilitation of waters of the United States, as defined in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. (4) The Endangered Species Act of 1973 requires Federal agencies to consult with the Directors of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, as applicable, to avoid actions that could jeopardize listed species or critical habitats of such species. (5) While environmental protection is critical, current consultation processes can sometimes contribute to delays in post-disaster recovery. (6) A comprehensive, coordinated, and expedited approach for post-disaster permitting that leverages the biological expertise of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, and incorporates approved best management practices, will reduce regulatory delays while maintaining robust environmental safeguards.