Homeland Democrats Demand FEMA Open Application Process for Billions in Homeland Security Preparedness Grants
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, and Rep. Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Ranking Member of the Emergency Management & Technology Subcommittee, led Committee Democrats in sending a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Senior Official Performing the Duties of FEMA Administrator David Richardson demanding they follow the law and open the grant application process for $2 billion in DHS preparedness grant funding. By law, FEMA was required to open the process by May 14 but has not done so and is now two months late.
At a time when the Trump administration claims they want to support state and local governments to respond to disasters on their own, denying them this funding that Congress appropriated makes zero sense and tells state and local governments that they are on their own.
“DHS preparedness grants are essential tools for building and sustaining core capabilities to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and natural disasters,” the Members wrote. “States, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations rely on these grants to bolster emergency preparedness, support first responders, and strengthen infrastructure security and resilience.”
Sadly, denying this funding will impact states’, municipalities’, and nonprofits’ ability to respond to floods and hurricanes and prevent them from preparing for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics.
“Every day of the delay deepens the risk, strips communities of critical tools, and sends a clear message that preparedness is not a priority for this administration,” the Members added. “In short, withholding these congressionally appropriated funds undermines homeland security and puts American lives at risk.”
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