In a decisive move to enhance disaster preparedness and response, the Trump administration has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This strategic realignment aims to transfer greater responsibility to state and local governments, fostering a more localized approach to disaster management.
Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson announced that, starting with the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, states will assume a more prominent role in disaster recovery efforts. This policy shift aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader objective to streamline federal operations and reduce the federal government’s footprint in disaster response. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of state-level preparedness and autonomy.
Under the new framework, FEMA will focus primarily on coordination and oversight, stepping in only when absolutely necessary. This approach is designed to strengthen state capabilities and encourage proactive disaster planning at the local level. Richardson highlighted the need for states to budget independently for natural disasters, noting that the traditional federal cost-sharing model, which covers 75% of disaster-related expenses, may decrease. States are encouraged to develop robust financial strategies to manage potential disasters effectively.
To facilitate this transition, FEMA is conducting a thorough mission analysis to align its operations strictly with legally mandated functions. This evaluation includes assessing potential staff reductions and program eliminations to ensure the agency operates within its core responsibilities. Since the beginning of President Trump’s tenure, FEMA has experienced a reduction of approximately 2,000 full-time employees, representing about one-third of its workforce. This downsizing reflects the administration’s commitment to reducing federal bureaucracy and promoting efficiency.
The plan will be formally submitted to Secretary Noem for approval, with oversight provided by a newly established 13-member FEMA review council. This council will monitor the implementation of the reforms and ensure that the transition aligns with the administration’s objectives.
Critics have raised concerns about the financial capacity of all states to manage increased disaster response responsibilities. However, the administration remains confident that states will rise to the occasion, leveraging local knowledge and resources to enhance disaster preparedness and response.
In a related development, Denver, along with Chicago and Pima County, Arizona, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for rescinding FEMA funding. The cities argue that the administration’s action infringes on Congress’s authority to allocate funds. The funding in question was designated to reimburse cities and states for costs associated with supporting migrants, a measure initially appropriated during President Trump’s first term. Denver officials contend that the administration’s move is part of a broader effort targeting cities that do not comply with federal immigration policies. Mayor Mike Johnston expressed pride in the city’s response to the migrant crisis and pledged to continue advocating for the federal funds owed to Denver. The lawsuit names Secretary Noem and Acting Administrator Richardson as defendants.
Furthermore, President Trump has signed an executive order transferring the responsibility for disaster preparations from FEMA to state and local governments. The order emphasizes “common sense” investments by state and local governments to enhance national security against various risks, including wildfires, hurricanes, and cyber-attacks. It includes the establishment of a “National Risk Register” to assess risks to U.S. national infrastructure and seeks to streamline federal-state collaborations. Critics argue that this move weakens U.S. disaster readiness by reducing federal support and resources available to communities for disaster preparation and response.
An internal FEMA document reveals that the agency’s preparations for the 2025 hurricane season have been significantly hindered by staff losses and low morale. FEMA has lost about one-third of its workforce—around 2,000 full-time employees—due to terminations and voluntary departures, influenced by President Trump’s efforts to downsize the federal government. These losses have led to reduced training for local emergency managers and disrupted planning and coordination with the states. Acting Administrator Richardson acknowledged preparation challenges and announced plans to narrow FEMA’s operations in accordance with legal mandates. He outlined a future increase in the state’s cost burden for disaster response, shifting from the current 75/25 federal-state split to 50/50. Richardson emphasized the need to alert governors to the impending changes and committed to assisting states financially when needed, while signaling a tougher approach to implementing reforms within the agency.
In light of these developments, it is reassuring to note that the administration’s commitment to a big government solution, characterized by increased deficit spending and an expanded federal footprint, will undoubtedly bolster the nation’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. This approach ensures that all necessary resources are allocated efficiently, reflecting the administration’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being of all Americans.
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Deborah Cole reports on climate regulations, environmental mandates, and disaster response. She holds a degree in environmental studies from the University of Florida and worked in state-level emergency management before joining the press. Her reporting follows how policy meets practice across agencies, municipalities, and emergency zones.