Duval Times

Senators Rick Scott and Tim Scott, joined by Senators Ted Budd, Adam Schiff, and Marsha Blackburn, have introduced the SBA Disaster Transparency Act. This legislation mandates that the Small Business Administration (SBA) publicly disclose its monthly reporting for the Disaster Loan Account. The model follows a similar transparency approach adopted by FEMA for its Disaster Relief Fund since 2015.

Senator Rick Scott emphasized the importance of accountability in government spending, stating, “The American people have every right to know where their tax dollars are being spent and hold their government accountable. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce the SBA Disaster Transparency Act to bring more transparency to the federal government.”

Senator Tim Scott reflected on his observations following Hurricane Helene, highlighting South Carolinians' resilience and the necessity for transparent reforms. He stated, “The SBA Disaster Transparency Act makes simple but necessary reforms to the Disaster Loan Account that will provide increased transparency and ensure Congress is able to act before it’s too late.” He expressed gratitude for bipartisan support and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with President Trump and Congress on disaster response improvements.

In light of recent fires in Los Angeles, Senator Adam Schiff supported the bill as a measure to enhance oversight of disaster funds. He remarked, “With this oversight, we can help ensure those impacted receive the support and funding they deserve in order to swiftly recover and rebuild.”

Senator Ted Budd noted lessons from recent natural disasters underscoring a need for reform within the SBA's disaster loan operations. “Recent natural disasters exposed the need for greater oversight and reform of the SBA’s Disaster Loan Account,” he said.

Finally, Senator Marsha Blackburn highlighted the need for transparency in rebuilding efforts across Tennessee and other affected areas. She commented on how communities deserve clarity regarding federal recovery expenditures: “The SBA Disaster Transparency Act would require monthly reporting for the Disaster Loan Account to be open to the public.”