,FEMA and Federalism: Washington Is Moving in the Wrong Direction

FEMA and Federalism: Washington Is Moving in the Wrong Direction


 

Publication Date: May 2007

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): James Jay Carafano; Matt A. Mayer

Research Area: Social conditions

Keywords: Homeland defense; federalism; DHS; FEMA

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The United States needs a disaster response system that is built on the principle of federalism. FEMA should focus its efforts on preparing to respond to catastrophic disasters like Hurricane Katrina, and Congress should establish a higher threshold for triggering federal disaster declarations and encourage states and local communities to implement responsible public safety and emergency response programs.