MALDEN Act

The MALDEN Act (S 3683) amends the Stafford Act to improve federal disaster assistance for rural communities impacted by wildfires. It directly affects rural residents and local governments recovering from wildfires, particularly those denied individual assistance under Section 408. Key provisions require federal agencies to coordinate with state/Tribal emergency agencies to help rural areas develop recovery teams focused on preventing secondary disasters (like mudslides) and identifying short- and long-term recovery resources. Additionally, it mandates case worker availability for residents denied assistance in rural wildfire zones. The bill makes concrete policy changes to FEMA's coordination and support processes for rural wildfire recovery.