Harmful Algal Bloom Disaster Relief Act

# Harmful Algal Bloom Disaster Relief Act (HR 1786) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would allow the President to officially declare harmful algal blooms (HABs) as "major disasters," which would unlock federal disaster relief funding and assistance. Currently, algal blooms may not qualify for the same emergency declarations available for hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. If passed, communities affected by severe algal blooms could access federal resources more easily. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects coastal and freshwater communities experiencing harmful algal blooms, particularly in states like Florida where red tides and toxic blooms are recurring problems.

It would also impact fisheries, tourism industries, and public health agencies in affected areas. At the federal level, it gives the President new authority to designate certain algal bloom events as disasters. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. No companion bill has been identified in the Senate.