Timeliness in disaster response

Section 401 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170) is amended by adding at the end the following: (d) Timeliness in disaster response (1) In general Not later than 45 days after receipt of a request for a major disaster declaration under this section from a State, Tribal, or territorial government, the President shall respond to each such request. (2) Automatic approval Any request made under paragraph (1) to which the President does not respond not later than 45 days after receipt of such request shall be deemed approved. (3) Limitation The deadline under paragraph (1) shall not prevent submission and approval of disaster declaration amendment requests by a State, Tribal, or territorial government..