Senator Joni Ernst addressed the release of a new report on Jul. 16 that found significant issues with federal disaster response in Iowa following tornadoes and flooding in 2024. The report, which Ernst requested, determined that over 95% of Small Business Administration (SBA) information distributed in Iowa was not updated to reflect Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) rule changes, affecting Iowans’ ability to access federal disaster resources.
The findings prompted recommendations for improving future outreach by ensuring SBA materials are consistent, current, and clear. “Hardworking entrepreneurs who lose their livelihoods in a natural disaster have no time to spare when it comes to rebuilding and recovery. Timely and efficient access to federal resources can make the difference between a business that reopens its doors and one that has to close up shop,” said Senator Ernst. “Failing to provide disaster victims with updated information is yet another way Biden’s SBA left small business owners behind. I’m proud to be working with the Trump administration to correct this and ensure the next time disaster strikes, folks have the information they need.”
Ernst has experience assisting Iowans during natural disasters from her service in the Iowa National Guard and has advocated for reducing government barriers so victims can more easily obtain necessary support. She called for establishing a one-stop shop for rural communities seeking federal assistance, now known as the Rural Partnership Network—a direct line connecting hundreds of rural-focused programs.
In response to widespread disasters in Iowa during 2024, Ernst called for full deployment of resources, visited affected communities, met local leaders and emergency officials, and conducted oversight of FEMA efforts.
The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee supports informed decision-making on national fiscal priorities; offers Congress comprehensive policy options on budget components; features Lindsey Graham as chairman and Jeff Merkley as ranking member; contributes through resolutions and reconciliation instructions; was established by the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974; and provides nonpartisan budgetary analysis through oversight of the Congressional Budget Office, according to the official website.