Disaster response is a life-or-death matter; we need to tell that to the Trump Administration
Disaster response is a life-or-death matter. But the current administration has stated its desire to eliminate FEMA as it exists and have states lead disaster response. States already lead disaster response; that is how disaster response works. Dismantling FEMA does not help with disaster response; it eliminates the safety net that serves as the backstop for emergency management.
434 members of the House agree that FEMA should not be eliminated – an outstanding majority.
Despite this bipartisan agreement, the Trump Administration has still taken steps to try and dismantle FEMA, such as:
- Allowing DOGE unlawful access to FEMA’s systems, and directed FEMA to eliminate all climate change-related activities;
- Fired over 200 workers and pressured over 2,000 more to quit or accept early retirement packages;
- Cancelled FEMA’s pre-disaster mitigation program; and
- Ended door-to-door canvassing to help survivors register for federal aid after disasters.
These efforts paint a scary picture that this country is no longer ready for disasters. But we want FEMA to succeed – we need FEMA to succeed. That is why I introduced legislation that would give FEMA the tools it needs to simplify its programs and provide quicker relief to disaster-impacted communities.
I will continue this fight to protect FEMA and make sure Northwest Washington has the support we need.
More soon,
Rick
