Advocacy Update: August 6, 2025
August 6, 2025
Stay informed without the overwhelm. The Advocacy Update delivers clear, curated legislative updates restoration contractors can trust, highlighting the bills, policies, and issues that matter most to your business. Each week, get a quick, actionable overview to keep you prepared and ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
Disaster Response
US S 2296, the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, includes key provisions to support environmental remediation, infrastructure hardening, and storm recovery initiatives, especially in regions vulnerable to natural disasters. While defense-focused, it authorizes significant funding that can be leveraged by contractors engaged in federal disaster response and infrastructure restoration work. The Senate is trying to begin debate on the bill, so the Senate filed a cloture motion to force a vote on whether to proceed. The cloture motion will require at least 60 votes to proceed. However, the bill will not proceed further until Congress resumes following the August recess.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2026 is significant for restoration contractors for several reasons:
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Funding Opportunities: The NDAA authorizes substantial funding for storm recovery initiatives. Restoration contractors can leverage this funding to secure contracts for disaster response and infrastructure restoration projects, particularly in areas prone to natural disasters.
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Focus on Vulnerable Regions: The bill specifically addresses the needs of regions that are vulnerable to natural disasters. This focus creates opportunities for contractors to engage in projects aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving disaster resilience in these areas.
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Federal Disaster Response: As the NDAA includes provisions related to federal disaster response, contractors involved in restoration work can benefit from the increased federal investment in disaster recovery efforts. This can lead to more contracts and projects aimed at restoring communities affected by disasters.
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These weekly updates are part of RIA’s mission to educate, advocate, and elevate the restoration industry—empowering contractors to navigate legislative challenges and shape a stronger future for all.