WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., is suggesting federal lawmakers should reconsider how Congress handles emergency aid to ensure communities can access disaster relief funding in a more efficient manner.

Womack, of Rogers, addressed the federal government's role in supporting natural disaster response and recovery efforts during an interview with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette concerning the recent stopgap funding package, which included $100 billion for disaster relief.

President Joe Biden signed the 118-page measure Saturday following approval by the Senate and House of Representatives. The legislation additionally has language setting aside $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers, an extension of farm bill programs through September, and support for maintaining government funding at current levels until March 14.