Former FEMA chief Deanne Criswell has raised concerns over President Donald Trump's suggestion to eliminate or reduce the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), stating that such a move could have severe implications on emergency response efforts at state levels.
Criswell emphasized the importance of FEMA's role in coordinating disaster response efforts, highlighting that the agency assigns tasks like debris cleanup to other federal entities such as the US Army Corps of Engineers. States rely on FEMA to activate these resources, which are crucial in the aftermath of natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes.
One of FEMA's critical functions is reimbursing states and municipalities for search and rescue operations during emergencies. Criswell pointed out that FEMA funds specialized teams, including local first responders and cadaver dog units, to assist in disaster response efforts.
If states were to lose FEMA funding, they would be required to find alternative sources of financial support for emergency response activities. Criswell underscored the ongoing assistance provided by FEMA, citing the agency's role in housing individuals displaced by disasters like Hurricane Helene.
The former FEMA chief expressed concerns about the potential consequences of abolishing the agency, particularly in terms of providing essential services to disaster-affected communities. She questioned who would assume responsibility for critical tasks like housing displaced individuals if FEMA were no longer in operation.
