Amidst concerns over FEMA's disaster response capabilities, some GOP lawmakers call for an audit of the agency's finances. The article delves into the complexities of disaster funding, the current state of FEMA's coffers, and potential obstacles to replenishing funds in the face of natural calamities.
In the wake of devastating hurricanes, concerns are being raised about the adequacy of FEMA's resources to effectively respond to natural disasters. With FEMA's coffers nearly depleted in late September, Congress approved an interim spending bill to reload the Disaster Relief Program (DRF) with $20 billion.
However, some GOP lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have resisted demands to recall Congress to address the storms. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has indicated that the agency currently has sufficient funding, but concerns persist about the agency's ability to sustain its response operations over an extended period.
FEMA Funding Woes: Concerns Mount Over Disaster Relief Response
Regardless of the severity of the storms, the likelihood of Congress returning to replenish FEMA's coffers before mid-November is slim. The DRF is currently well-stocked, and a catastrophic event that could deplete the fund to zero before next month is considered unlikely.
The process of approving emergency storm relief bills has become more complex in recent years. While a skeleton crew of lawmakers approved funding for FEMA in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the current political climate makes it less likely that a similar approach would be successful today.
FEMA Funding Woes: Concerns Mount Over Disaster Relief Response
In 2020, Congress attempted to approve a $2.3 trillion relief package for the COVID-19 pandemic, but faced objections from some Republican members who demanded a roll call vote. This incident underscores the potential for political gridlock to hinder the approval of emergency funding.
Even if Congress is recalled, lawmakers may face difficulties in identifying offsets to cover the cost of disaster relief. Republicans have expressed a desire for deficit reduction measures, which could lead to conflicts over funding priorities.
FEMA Funding Woes: Concerns Mount Over Disaster Relief Response
The fate of disaster relief funding remains uncertain. As the federal government approaches Fiscal Year 2025 without an agreed-upon topline spending number, finding offsets becomes more challenging.
In the coming days, there will be increased pressure for Congress to return to session to address FEMA's funding needs. President Biden has urged Congress to come back, but both the House and Senate are not in the proper parliamentary posture for a presidential recall.
FEMA Funding Woes: Concerns Mount Over Disaster Relief Response
Additionally, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer plans to hold a hearing with Criswell in mid-November to examine FEMA's disaster response.
As the storms pass, storm clouds over Capitol Hill regarding the federal response are just brewing. Lawmakers will face scrutiny over funding levels, spending decisions, and the overall effectiveness of FEMA's disaster relief efforts.
