Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) delivered the following remarks during House debate on H.R. 517, the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act. 

As prepared for delivery.

“I rise today in support of the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act introduced by Ways and Means members Representatives Kustoff and Chu. 

“For too many Americans, help from the federal government after a natural disaster can take too much time to arrive. This bipartisan bill authorizes the Treasury Department, in consultation with FEMA, to postpone tax filing deadlines for Americans living in state-declared disaster areas just as they do for federally declared disasters. If a state moves faster in declaring an emergency, the Treasury Department can more quickly respond when it comes to an individual’s tax obligations. This legislation will help disaster victims receive desperately needed tax relief sooner rather than later. 

“Additionally, this legislation doubles the current mandatory tax filing extension following a federally declared disaster declaration from 60 to 120 days. For most people recovering from a disaster, taxes fall lower on their to-do list than more immediate needs like finding shelter, food, and caring for loved ones. By extending this deadline, we are providing families the breathing room and additional time to get their life back together.

“President Trump was elected on the promise of finally making the government work better for working people. All Americans, but especially Americans recovering from a natural disaster, deserve easier tax filing. With Tax Day in just a few days, we must look for common-sense, bipartisan ways to make filing and paying taxes less of a hassle. 

“I want to thank both sponsors of this legislation for leading on this issue on behalf of the people they represent and all Americans.”