Stein shares recommendations for FEMA to improve disaster response

RALEIGH, N.C. (WITN) - Governor Josh Stein shares his recommendations for changes at FEMA to improve federal disaster response.

Stein gave his suggestions in a letter to the President’s FEMA Review Council, following a call for public input from the Department of Homeland Security.

“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,” said Stein. “North Carolina remains committed to working in good faith with the federal government and this Council on ways to improve federal disaster support, and we encourage the Council to keep the needs of our people at the forefront. Let’s improve FEMA, not abolish it.”

In his letter, Stein proposed the following four reforms:

1. Offer fast, flexible funding - Stein suggests FEMA should provide block grants, allowing states to submit approved action plans ahead of disasters. This would speed up the flow of funds to communities in need.
2. Make permanent repairs immediately eligible for FEMA Funding - Currently, FEMA funds can only be used for temporary or pre-storm conditions. Stein proposes that these funds should also cover permanent repairs, saving taxpayer money and making structures stronger.
3. Move away from reimbursement programs to better support local governments - Instead of making local governments pay upfront and then reimburse them, Stein says FEMA should provide quicker funding and focus on compliance to help communities recover faster.
4. Streamline the process for survivors - Stein proposes a single application that would be sent to all relevant federal agencies to simplify the process.

Stein also urged the FEMA Review Council to maintain federal involvement in disaster preparedness and recovery, particularly through supporting resilience efforts in communities that are vulnerable to disasters.