A draft of a much-anticipated report on reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been whittled down in size, with recommendations compiled by a council appointed by the president slashed and amended by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s office, according to three people familiar with the developments.
The report “got nuked,” said one former FEMA official. The three people, who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the issue, said the report shrunk from over 160 pages to roughly 20. They expressed concern that vital recommendations about disaster preparedness might not be included in the final copy expected around December 12.
This reduction reflects the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the federal government's role in disaster management, placing more responsibility on states, tribes, and territories. Critics argue that cutting crucial recommendations could leave these entities ill-equipped to handle disasters and recover effectively.
Opponents of the cuts point out that state and local governments are often unable to shoulder the financial and logistical burdens tied to disaster recovery, especially given the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related events. FEMA has traditionally played a pivotal role in coordinating federal assistance during such crises.
DHS did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In response to inquiries about the report's progress, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson indicated that the review council would advise President Trump on how FEMA could be effectively reformed while maintaining a supplemental federal role.
The initial draft sought reforms to FEMA
The council, appointed by Trump and composed primarily of members from Republican-led states advocating significant FEMA reforms, completed a draft report in early November exceeding 160 pages. Initial drafts included key principles like public assistance reform, improved flood insurance, and a focus on rural resilience.
Notably, initial recommendations included measures to expedite federal disaster recovery grants and reduce the federal cost share for disasters below the existing minimum of 75%. These proposals aimed to foster a more proactive approach to disaster management.
The new draft cuts proposed reforms and makes others
After the draft was submitted to DHS for review, it became clear that key aspects, including mitigation strategies, were omitted in the new, shorter version of the report. Council members were informed that these cuts would undermine the preparedness funding intended for local emergency management.
A Republican-dominated council
The council has been meeting for nearly a year, conducting listening sessions in disaster-stricken areas and gathering input from emergency management professionals to refine FEMA’s operations. With nearly all its members from Republican states, the council members, including prominent figures like Florida’s emergency management director and Texas’ governor, have engaged in a comprehensive approach to reform. However, the recent cuts have raised doubts about the integrity of this process.
