Trek.pub Trekking around the net
Related Articles
In a recent letter to Congress, over 180 current and former FEMA employees criticized the Trump administration’s management and funding cuts, which they believe hinder the agency’s ability to respond effectively to natural disasters, especially as hurricane season approaches. The workers described the current state of FEMA as reminiscent of the failed federal response during Hurricane Katrina, citing issues such as unqualified leadership and a lack of resources.
The letter, called the “Katrina Declaration,” highlights concerns about reassigned staff to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and cuts to disaster preparedness programs, like the $1 billion BRIC initiative. The employees argue that such actions compromise FEMA’s mission, warning that increased disaster frequency makes these funding reductions perilous for American lives and property.
Additionally, the letter alleges that the Trump administration has suppressed climate science information, undermining an understanding of climate-related risks. Recent disasters, they note, reveal the detrimental impact of leadership decisions, such as delayed responses during deadly floods in Texas.
In response, FEMA’s Acting Press Secretary stated that the agency is focused on reforming processes to ensure quicker assistance to disaster survivors, claiming that prior inefficiencies were to blame for slow responses. The statement dismisses employee concerns, suggesting resistance to necessary changes. Overall, the letter aims to draw urgent attention to what employees see as critical flaws in the agency’s current operations and leadership.
Read this related Trek here:
How Trump’s FEMA Cuts Put You at Risk, According to Staffers
