FEMA Reforms Draft Report Cut by Homeland Security

Thu Nov 20 2025 04:23:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A draft report on the reform of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been drastically condensed under the influence of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s office, sparking concerns among emergency management leaders.

A highly anticipated report aimed at reforming FEMA was reduced from over 160 pages to about 20, leading to worries that crucial recommendations for disaster preparedness may be omitted. This alteration resonates with the Trump administration's agenda to shift disaster management responsibilities onto states, tribes, and local governments. Critics argue that this downsizing could jeopardize federal support and hinder disaster recovery efforts, especially as severe climate conditions persist.

A draft of a much-anticipated report on reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been significantly reduced in length, with recommendations compiled by a presidentially appointed council slashed and amended by the office of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, according to sources familiar with the developments.

The report “got nuked,” remarked a former FEMA official. The people who spoke on condition of anonymity shared that the report dwindled from over 160 pages to just about 20. This has raised concerns among council members and emergency management leaders regarding the omission of critical recommendations that could enhance the country’s disaster preparedness, with a final copy expected around December 12.

The trimming of the draft reflects the Trump administration’s intent to lessen the federal government’s role in disaster management. Key responsibilities for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery are increasingly being pushed onto states, tribes, and territories.

Critics of the report's downsizing assert that removing certain original recommendations and incorporating others that diminish FEMA's role demonstrates political interference in a professional process. Adjusted recommendations could leave states and local governments unprepared for disaster response and recovery.

Opponents argue that most state and local governments are not equipped to handle the immense financial and logistical challenges of rebuilding, especially as the impacts of climate change increase in frequency and severity. FEMA plays a crucial role in coordinating federal assistance in these situations.

The Department of Homeland Security has not responded to requests for comment regarding the report. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson mentioned that the review council would suggest to President Trump how FEMA could be reformed to keep the federal role supplemental to the required disaster scale.

The initial draft included numerous proposals aimed at reforming FEMA’s programs, such as improving public assistance and establishing better flood insurance protocols. It sought to enhance the preparedness of local management agencies while emphasizing both immediate and long-term disaster recovery solutions.

However, after being submitted for comments in early November, the council learned that Noem’s office significantly cut down on both the content and the $$$ allocated for mitigation programs. This drastic change comes after nearly a year of meetings conducted to gather input on necessary reforms.

As discussion continues over the shifting responsibilities and necessary reforms of FEMA, many feel urgent action is required to enhance the nation’s disaster response capabilities, especially as communities face escalating risks from climate change.