1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Local Expertise is Vital for Effective Embankments Act or the LEVEE Act . 2. Establishing permanent features from emergency response measures (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Impacted community The term impacted community means an entity that has received emergency flood fighting assistance under section 5 of the Act of August 18, 1941 (commonly known as the Flood Control Act of 1941 ) (55 Stat. 650, chapter 377; 33 U.S.C. 701n ), involving the construction of a temporary structure. (2) Permanent feature The term permanent feature means a structural or nonstructural measure typical in a flood control project. (3) Small or disadvantaged community The term small or disadvantaged community means a community— (A) with a population of less than 10,000; or (B) that is— (i) financially disadvantaged; and (ii) at risk from repeat flooding events. (b) Evaluation of temporary structures Notwithstanding any other provision of law, on request of an impacted community, the Secretary shall evaluate whether the temporary structure warrants consideration for a permanent feature, in accordance with subsection (c). (c) Considerations In evaluating a temporary structure under subsection (b), the Secretary shall consider— (1) the likelihood that a similar structure will need to be constructed in the area in the future if the temporary structure, or a similar structure, is not made permanent; (2) the extent to which similar structures have been constructed in the area previously and removed; (3) the economic, safety, and environmental benefits and impacts of establishing a permanent feature in the watershed of the impacted community; (4) the extent of the modifications necessary to make the temporary structure a permanent feature