The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is signaling for urgent support as FEMA faces potential resource shortages amid an intense hurricane season.
At a Glance
- The U.S. DHS announced $210 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) funds.
- Total NSGP funding for fiscal year 2024 is $664 million.
- The Biden-Harris Administration approved an emergency declaration anticipating Hurricane Helene.
- FEMA provided nearly $10 billion in grants after 2017 hurricanes and wildfires.
Urgent Call for FEMA Funding
The Department of Homeland Security is urgently calling for increased funding for FEMA to bolster disaster response capabilities during this year’s challenging hurricane season. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted the concern during a briefing on Air Force One, stressing FEMA’s current financial limitations. Without additional funds, FEMA may struggle to provide the necessary support to communities in the wake of natural disasters. President Joe Biden’s administration is considering a supplemental spending bill to address this looming issue.
To address the immediate concerns of depleting resources, FEMA has been active in disaster readiness and response. The Biden-Harris Administration recently approved an emergency declaration ahead of Hurricane Helene’s expected landfall. As Hurricane Helene looms, FEMA has coordinated efforts with federal partners and activated its National and Regional Response Coordination Centers. State and local governments are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring aid can be delivered promptly.
Hurricane season started just a month ago and @FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund could run out soon as natural disasters become more destructive.
For FEMA to meet its mission, Congress must provide additional funding.https://t.co/COHIaKPdxz
— House Homeland Security Committee Democrats (@HomelandDems) July 12, 2024
Securing and Supporting Infrastructure
Administrations under Mayorkas have focused on securing infrastructure against both natural and cyber threats. Additional Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds were announced, providing $210 million to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations. “Now, when we continue to live in a heightened threat environment, the security-enhancing grant funds we provide to non-profit organizations are more critical than ever,” said Secretary Mayorkas. This initiative allows these institutions to improve their resilience to emerging threats.
“Now, when we continue to live in a heightened threat environment, the security-enhancing grant funds we provide to non-profit organizations are more critical than ever,” said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
DHS is not stopping short with natural disasters; the Biden administration is also tackling cyber threats. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and FEMA are administering a $279.9 million grant for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) to ensure state and local governments can defend against cyber risks. This dual focus on natural and digital threats underscores the importance of implementing proactive measures to safeguard American communities.
Ensuring Accountability and Effective Preparedness
FEMA has historically played a crucial role in aiding recovery after disasters, having allocated nearly $10 billion after the 2017 hurricanes and wildfires. Nonetheless, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has recommended FEMA improve its fraud risk assessments. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has expressed commitment to addressing these issues, aiming to fortify trust and utility in disaster management efforts. Improved fraud-awareness training and comprehensive risk analysis remain central to FEMA’s strategy for future readiness.
“FEMA is committed to helping our partners address and withstand cybersecurity threats to both infrastructure and systems,” said Deanne Criswell.
As the nation braces for environmental and technological threats, these announcements represent a pivotal step toward securing vital infrastructure and maintaining national resilience amidst uncertain times. The reinforcement of FEMA’s operational capacity alongside proactive legislative measures showcases a commitment to safeguarding American lives and livelihoods.
