A bill that would create a grant program to assist local jurisdictions with the costs of responding to community needs during extreme weather events made it through the House with strong support.

HB 1620 passed the House on a 68-28 vote. The bill establishes a grant program in the state Emergency Management Department for local governments and federally recognized tribes to receive reimbursements for costs associated with providing relief to vulnerable populations during extreme weather events. These activities could include:

• Establishing and operating warming and cooling centers;
• Purchasing supplies such as food and water;
• Transporting people to warming and cooling centers; and
• Hiring adequate staff to manage a center.

The bill now awaits a hearing in the State Government & Elections Committee. AWC encourages cities to contact their Senators and ask them to support this bill.