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January 19, 2024

Ranking Members Thompson and Carter Issue Statement on FEMA Reforming its Disaster Assistance Program to Help Impacted Communities

(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, and Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, issued the following statement on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announcing the overhaul of its Disaster Assistance program to ensure that more disaster survivors receive financial assistance faster by expanding eligibility, establishing new benefits, streamlining the application process, and removing barriers for applicants.   

"FEMA's announced changes to its Individual Assistance program demonstrate a commitment to expedite disaster assistance – cutting through bureaucratic hurdles to provide disaster survivors with faster and more flexible support. As disasters become more frequent and intense with the effects of climate change, we will need to make sure our disaster assistance system is working as efficiently and as effectively as possible. These changes will ensure more equitable outcomes and empower communities to recover swiftly and resiliently after disasters. I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for making these changes a reality,” said Ranking Member Thompson.

“The importance of federal resources directed towards disaster recovery cannot be overstated. In Louisiana, we know better than anyone that storms are staying for longer and doing more damage than ever before. In the face of increasingly frequent natural disasters, these sweeping resources play a crucial role in rebuilding communities, providing essential aid, and restoring normalcy for Louisianians. I’m excited about this announcement, which will help ensure a swift and comprehensive federal response to safeguard the well-being and resilience of disaster-prone regions,” added Ranking Member Carter.

In addition to leading efforts in emergency preparedness within the Homeland Security Committee, Ranking Members Thompson and Carter also serve as co-Chairs of the Congressional Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus. Established in May 2023, the Caucus promotes the benefits of resilience and the need for equity in the country’s disaster preparedness and response infrastructure.

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