The Iowa House today approved a $56 million emergency disaster relief bill that includes $22 million for housing assistance, $10 million for individual disaster grants, and $22 million for community disaster grants.

“I’m glad the House has taken quick action to get help out to Iowans. We know that thousands of people are still struggling and this is another step forward in getting Iowans back in their homes and businesses back up and running,” said State Representative Tyler Olson of Cedar Rapids, who won approval of the bill in the House.

In addition to the $24 million for housing, House File 64 also expands the eligibility criteria so more Iowans can receive down payment assistance, housing repair or rehabilitation, and interim mortgage assistance. The $10 million for individual grants can be used for personal needs or mental health and also includes more Iowans. The $22 million in community disaster grants will go directly to communities impacted by disasters based on their share of statewide damage estimates.

The bill now moves to the Senate.

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