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22 | Page January 1 7 I ssueCritical disaster relief funding securedCounties are applauding the passage of legislation providing $100 billion in disaster relief funding. This funding is essential to help communities recover from recent natural disasters while preparing for future challenges.%u2022 Critical county role: Counties are at the forefront of disaster mitigation and response, and these resources bolster our ability to protect residents and infrastructure.%u2022 More from NACo: NACo recently announced the formation of the Intergovernmental Disaster Reform Task Force to modernize federal disaster policies, strengthen intergovernmental partnerships and enhance local disaster mitigation, response and recovery capacities.Other key wins for countiesCounties are celebrating a series of other legislative victories that directly impact our communities.%u2022 The U.S. House of Representatives has passed bipartisan legislation to enhance child welfare systems, supporting prevention services and foster care.%u2022 Reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration for the first time in 20 years, securing critical resources for county-level economic growth and job creation.%u2022 The passage of an outdoor recreation package will expand access to parks, trails and public lands, enhancing quality of life for millions of residents.%u2022 New federal funding for County Veteran Service Officers ensures counties can better serve those who have served our country.