DeLuca Introduces Plan to Reimburse Local Governments for Storm-related Emergency Relief Spending

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In the wake of severe summer weather that damaged communities throughout the region, state Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, has introduced legislation to help reimburse impacted municipalities for expenses incurred while providing emergency disaster relief and restoration services.

DeLuca’s measure comes as the federal government refuses to provide assistance to Illinois, while offering support to Indiana for damage from the same storms.

“When dealing with the cleanup after storms, flooding and other disasters, it’s important to expedite efforts to get things back to normal as soon as possible,” DeLuca said. “Many local communities have shouldered the burden of these initial emergency expenses. This can leave a significant dent in their finances now and moving forward, and I believe the state has a responsibility to assist impacted areas.”

Subject to appropriation, DeLuca’s House Bill 5819 would direct the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Office of Homeland Security to award grants to local governments in counties impacted by summer storms referenced in the governor’s Aug. 18 emergency declaration. These grants would reimburse money spent on relief including reconstruction activities, repairs to essential services, bedding and temporary shelter, transportation, food and clothing, medical supplies, and personnel.

Qualified local governments would be those in Alexander, Champaign, Cook, DuPage, Ford, Fulton, Kane, Lake, La Salle, Marshall, McLean, Pulaski, Tazewell, Vermilion and Will Counties.

“I appreciate everyone who has stepped up to help their neighbors following these severe weather events,” DeLuca said. “Let’s make sure our local governments are responsibly supported and equipped to handle any additional challenges moving forward.”

For more information, please contact RepDeLuca@SBCGlobal.net.

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