Press Releases

Deadly Storm Strikes As Trump Administration Threatens to Dismantle FEMA and Seeks To Cut NOAA’s Weather Monitoring Workforce

BUFFALO, NY – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Ranking Member of the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee, released the following statement after a deadly storm system ravaged the South and Midwest. 

“This past weekend, a cross-country storm system devastated communities from Oklahoma to North Carolina, causing severe wildfires, tornadoes, and dust storms, and killing at least 42 people. I offer my deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, especially those who are grieving the loss of loved ones.

“We are at a crossroads in emergency preparedness. As natural disasters become increasingly severe and more frequent, the need for robust emergency preparedness, response, and resilience is critical. Yet, recent mass firings at government weather forecasting agencies as well as threats to dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) place the future of emergency response in jeopardy.

“Western New York and communities in every corner of the country rely on these hardworking public servants and agencies. As the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee with jurisdiction over emergency management, I will not stop fighting to protect those that protect us.”

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