Hearing to Focus on Streamlining the Recovery Process Following Local Disasters

Press Release

The Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, chaired by U.S. Rep. Jeff Denham (R-CA), will hold an oversight hearing on Thursday to examine ways to better manage federal disaster recovery programs, help communities get back on their feet sooner following major disasters, and save taxpayers money.

The Subcommittee is working to reauthorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the federal government's lead agency for preparing for, mitigating against, responding to, and recovering from disasters and emergencies related to all hazards, whether natural or man-made. When states and local resources are overwhelmed by a disaster, federal resources are deployed in support of local response efforts. FEMA also partners with other key agencies to assist in various ways, including aiding with long-term housing needs, economic development, and loans for small businesses impacted by a disaster.

"I am holding this hearing to address the cost to the nation if we do not correctly and efficiently prepare for natural disasters. I am preparing legislation to reauthorize FEMA and to modernize our emergency warning system. A streamlined process will allow for better coordination among our emergency preparedness and response systems and will ensure that we are helping communities in the most efficient and cost effective way," said Chairman Denham.

While the mechanisms are in place to assist states and local communities after widespread disasters, Chairman Denham and the subcommittee have conducted significant oversight over the impediments to speeding up recovery following a disaster like Hurricane Katrina. As recovery time is lengthened, costs escalate, jobs are impacted, and local economies continue to suffer. "This hearing is intended to hear from stakeholders, both locally and nationally, to determine which reforms must be enacted to better protect Americans from natural disasters," Chairman Denham said.

Thursday's panel will focus on finding ways to streamline the recovery process through expedited assistance processes, improved coordination among the relevant federal agencies, supporting mitigating efforts before a disaster strikes, and ensuring proper planning.

Source