FEMA overhaul would make disaster aid harder to access, analysts warn
Summary
A panel appointed by President Trump has proposed major changes to FEMA that would reduce federal disaster aid and shift more responsibility to state and local governments. Experts warn this plan could make it harder for survivors to get help and might increase costs for flood insurance, especially for low-income families.Key Facts
- The FEMA Review Council, appointed by President Trump, suggested making FEMA smaller and less involved in disaster response.
- The plan would raise the rules for when a major disaster is officially declared, possibly excluding many past disasters.
- Federal grants for repairing public infrastructure would be replaced with fixed payments based on formulas, not actual damage costs.
- Assistance programs for individuals would be combined into a single capped payment, reducing help for housing, medical care, and repairs.
- The new system would require federal disaster funds to be spent within eight years, but rebuilding often takes longer.
- Changes to flood insurance pricing could sharply increase premiums in low-income areas, leaving vulnerable families less protected.
- The overhaul depends on approval from Congress before it can take effect.
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