To require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ensure that cost estimates, acquisition of proper materials, and any other activity related to certain projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act are performed by professionals licensed in the relevant State, and for other purposes.

This bill requires the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that **appropriately licensed professionals** perform key activities for disaster relief projects under sections 406 or 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. These "covered activities" specifically include preparing **cost estimates** and acquiring necessary **materials and equipment** for rebuilding efforts. An appropriately licensed professional is defined as an individual licensed in the state where the project occurs, such as an engineer, architect, builder, or tradesperson, who is either employed by FEMA or contracted by a governmental entity. The legislation establishes several requirements to empower these professionals and streamline project execution. FEMA may not disapprove project plans, rebuilding proposals, or material suggestions without the direct consent of a licensed professional, and any purchases they suggest must be approved by the Administrator. Furthermore, unless fraud is evident, plans, projects, and materials requested by these professionals cannot be rejected, rescinded, or stalled by FEMA. The bill also clarifies that it is the **State's responsibility** to hire licensed professionals to develop the scope of work, and any FEMA employee directly managing such projects must also be appropriately licensed. The Administrator is directed to update regulations to implement these new requirements, aiming to enhance the quality and efficiency of disaster recovery efforts.