House Bill No. [insert bill number] establishes a Local Emergency Quick Response Program aimed at providing financial assistance to property owners who have suffered damage from catastrophic natural events. The bill creates a Local Emergency Quick Response Account within the state special revenue fund, which will be funded with an appropriation of $8 million from the general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025. This account will be managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and will specifically aid property owners outside incorporated city limits, covering costs such as tree removal, livestock feed acquisition, and minor fencing repairs.

The bill outlines a process for property owners to apply for funding through their local conservation district, contingent upon the passage of an emergency resolution by the county commissioners. Property owners can request up to $10,000 on a cost-share basis, with the conservation district administering the program and retaining up to 7% of the awarded amount for administrative costs. The funding is limited to one application per property owner every five years, and funds will only be disbursed after the completion of the necessary work. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.