Press Releases

Kennedy Warns Undermining FEMA Is Reckless, Dangerous Threat To Disaster Preparedness

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee Ranking Member Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) called on lawmakers to strengthen disaster preparedness and support vital emergency response workers during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing.  

Kennedy warned that President Trump’s actions imperil communities and their ability to rebuild after disasters, saying, “As disasters unfortunately become more frequent and more severe, we must prioritize federal investments in emergency preparedness, response, and mitigation. President Trump has threatened to dismantle the agency, fired 200 employees, and pushed out 800 more through Elon Musk’s unfunded resignation scheme. Now more than ever, we need to support these brave public servants and the critical mission they support under FEMA.”

Kennedy also underscored the importance of parity in federal disaster assistance for extreme snowstorms like Winter Storm Elliott, saying, “One of my top priorities in emergency management is to ensure that FEMA not only responds to tornadoes, wildfires, hurricanes, and other disasters, but that snowstorms be included in this robust federal response as well. That is why I introduced the SNOW Act to expand disaster assistance for extreme blizzards which acutely impact the Buffalo-Niagara Region.”

Kennedy introduced the SNOW Act to bring extreme snowstorms on par with other emergencies and natural disasters in order to access federal assistance. To learn more, click here.

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