The Trump Administration’s push to reshape the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and diminish its role in disaster response and recovery is gaining momentum. In a recent briefing at the White House, President Trump announced plans to shift disaster management responsibilities to state governors after the current hurricane season, stating that those who cannot handle the task should not hold office.
However, the overwhelming support for FEMA was evident in the 99% positive public comments submitted to the FEMA review council, as well as endorsements from members of Congress and former FEMA administrators. Despite this, the council, established by President Trump, convened for the first time on May 20 to carry out his agenda of restructuring the agency.
Here are five key takeaways from the council meeting and recent developments:
1. The council members face an uphill battle in advocating for positive FEMA reforms, as the administration is intent on overhauling the agency completely. Recommendations that do not align with the administration’s vision are likely to be suppressed, as Secretary Noem emphasized the need to reimagine FEMA as a new agency.
2. Congress must urge the White House to appoint a FEMA administrator with emergency management expertise promptly. The current acting administrator, David Richardson, lacks relevant experience, raising concerns about the agency’s preparedness for disasters. Kevin Guthrie, a candidate under consideration, boasts 30 years of experience in public safety and emergency management, making him a more suitable choice.
3. Legislative action is needed to restore FEMA’s status as a standalone cabinet agency. Efforts to move FEMA out from under the Department of Homeland Security would enhance the agency’s efficiency and effectiveness in disaster response. Bipartisan bills such as the FEMA Independence Act have been introduced in Congress to support this objective.
4. President Trump’s approach of shifting disaster assistance responsibilities to states is problematic, as it places undue strain on local jurisdictions with limited resources. Congress must resist this trend and seek clarity on the approval process for disaster declarations, while also securing funding for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to address the looming deficit.
5. States and localities must prepare for the upcoming hurricane season and beyond, as FEMA’s role continues to evolve. Despite the administration’s efforts to diminish FEMA’s role, other federal resources such as the SBA disaster assistance program and HUD’s grant programs offer avenues for support in disaster recovery and mitigation efforts.
In conclusion, the FEMA review council appears to be aligning with President Trump’s agenda to dismantle FEMA, despite widespread support for the agency’s vital role in disaster management. Congressional action is crucial in safeguarding FEMA’s effectiveness and ensuring the safety of communities across the nation.
