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 by 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. Eligible uses of the funds include the removal of fallen trees, acquisition of livestock feed, and minor fencing repairs, among other necessary actions as determined by conservation district boards.

The bill outlines a structured 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 covering a maximum of 75% of the total costs. The application must be submitted within 60 days of the emergency resolution, and property owners are limited to one application every five years. Additionally, the conservation district may retain up to 7% of the awarded funds for program administration. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.