Governor Josh Stein has put forward recommendations to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with the aim of enhancing federal disaster response. These suggestions were submitted in a letter to the President’s FEMA Review Council, following a request from the Department of Homeland Security for public input.
“Nobody wants disaster to strike their state, but we know that simply hoping for the best is not a viable strategy. We must take steps to make disasters less deadly and less costly while also being ready to support survivors when storms hit,” stated Governor Stein. He emphasized North Carolina’s commitment to collaborating with the federal government and encouraged the Council to prioritize the needs of citizens. “Let’s improve FEMA, not abolish it,” he added.
Governor Stein’s proposed reforms include four key points:
1. Offer fast, flexible funding: He suggested that FEMA should provide block grants and allow states to submit pre-approved action plans before disasters occur, ensuring funds are available quickly without excessive bureaucracy. “The federal funds that arrive in communities after a disaster are a lifeline for people and governments, but it is no secret that these funds often move too slowly and with too much red tape,” said Governor Stein.
2. Make permanent repairs immediately eligible for FEMA Funding: Currently, FEMA only supports rebuilding structures to temporary or pre-storm conditions. Stein believes directing funds towards permanent repairs would be more cost-effective and enhance structural resilience.
3. Move away from reimbursement programs: To better support local governments, Stein recommends shifting from reimbursement-based funding—which requires local governments to initially cover costs—to a system focused on monitoring and compliance for faster fund allocation.
4. Streamline survivor processes: Disaster survivors face complex application procedures for aid. A unified application process across relevant federal agencies could reduce this burden and improve inter-agency coordination.
Additionally, Governor Stein advocated maintaining federal involvement in disaster preparedness and recovery efforts, particularly through supporting community resilience projects. He noted concerns over FEMA’s recent cancellation of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program in North Carolina, suggesting it should be improved rather than discontinued.
He highlighted that resilience efforts have significant economic benefits, referencing a U.S. Chamber of Commerce report which found every dollar spent on such initiatives saves $13 in economic impact and related costs.
The full details of Governor Stein’s recommendations can be accessed through his complete letter.
