Sens. Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, has introduced the ‘Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act’ to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), calling for greater local control and efficiency in disaster response. Welch argues that current FEMA procedures are too slow, bureaucratic, and bloated, hindering timely recovery efforts following natural disasters.
Welch’s proposal follows the devastation from recent floods in Texas, New Mexico, and North Carolina, which have exposed the limitations of FEMA’s long-term recovery processes. The AID Act aims to empower local leaders to make decisions tailored to their communities’ needs by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and accelerating federal funding. This would allow communities to focus on recovery rather than navigating complex paperwork and endless administrative delays.
Welch highlighted the challenges faced by Vermonters during consecutive floods in 2022, where FEMA’s oversight was centralized in Puerto Rico rather than being localized. He emphasized the need for more experienced staff and streamlined processes to prevent staff turnover and ensure consistent support. The legislation also seeks to protect pre-disaster mitigation funds, which have been frozen due to bureaucratic delays, allowing communities to better prepare for future disasters.
Welch stressed the importance of bipartisan cooperation, stating that reforming FEMA should not be a partisan issue. He believes a more efficient and locally-driven approach can help communities across the United States recover more quickly and effectively from natural disasters, ultimately improving FEMA’s effectiveness and responsiveness in times of crisis.