The first 100 days of the Trump administration have been tumultuous for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Attacks on the agency, established nearly fifty years ago to assist communities in preparing for and recovering from catastrophic disasters, have been relentless. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most damaging actions taken by the Trump administration against FEMA.
1: Staff Reductions at FEMA
In February 2025, the Trump administration initiated mass layoffs across federal agencies, resulting in the dismissal of 200 FEMA staff members. Subsequently, an estimated 20% of FEMA’s workforce, around 1,000 employees, are expected to take voluntary buyouts. This reduction comes on top of an existing staffing gap, which FEMA and the Government Accountability Office had previously identified at 35% in 2022. Michael A. Coen, Jr., former Chief of Staff to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, expressed deep concerns about the impact of these staff reductions on FEMA’s ability to respond to disasters effectively. The loss of experienced personnel has lowered morale and increased distrust in agency leadership, jeopardizing FEMA’s mission.
2: Termination of Preparedness Grant Funding
On April 4, the Trump administration terminated the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, a popular and cost-effective FEMA grant initiative signed into law by President Trump in 2018. This decision leaves communities less prepared for disasters, particularly as the Atlantic hurricane season approaches. Colorado State University predicts an above-average hurricane season, underscoring the need for robust preparedness funding. The cancellation of BRIC jeopardizes $3.3 billion in planned projects that aim to mitigate the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, floods, and other natural hazards across the US.
Additionally, FEMA froze several other funds illegally, prompting states to sue the administration for executive overreach. The agency’s actions have caused confusion and challenges for states awaiting promised funds.
3: Threats to Disaster Aid
President Trump signed an executive order on March 19, aiming to shift more responsibility for disaster response onto state and local governments. This move could strain resources and hinder effective disaster management, particularly for large-scale catastrophes. FEMA also proposed significant changes, such as increasing the public assistance threshold for major disaster declarations and halting automatic approval of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. These alterations could limit federal support for states and communities facing disasters, potentially leaving them vulnerable.
4: Establishment of a Political Review Council
President Trump appointed members to the FEMA Review Council, charged with providing recommendations on improving FEMA and emphasizing state roles in disaster response. The Council’s composition, largely representing Gulf states, raises concerns about potential biases and a shift in FEMA’s mission. Vigilance is crucial to ensure that the Council’s recommendations align with FEMA’s core objectives and do not undermine the agency’s effectiveness.
5: Failure to Nominate a FEMA Administrator and Culture of Fear
Despite the critical role of a FEMA administrator, President Trump has yet to nominate a candidate. The appointment of Cameron Hamilton as the acting FEMA Administrator has raised questions about his qualifications and experience. Recent reports of lie detector tests and a culture of fear within FEMA further highlight the challenges facing the agency.
6: Disbanding Advisory Councils
The Trump administration disbanded FEMA’s National Advisory Committee, Technical Mapping Advisory Council, and National Dam Safety Review Board, undermining valuable sources of expert advice and recommendations. These advisory councils played vital roles in enhancing FEMA’s disaster assistance and planning capabilities, and their termination represents a significant loss of expertise.
Looking ahead, it is essential for Congress to prioritize robust funding for FEMA and ensure that any proposed changes undergo thorough review processes. Transparency, science-based decision-making, and public input must guide FEMA’s operations to effectively respond to disasters and support communities in need. By advocating for these principles, stakeholders can help safeguard FEMA’s mission and ensure the agency’s continued effectiveness in disaster response and recovery efforts.
