Press Release: Vermont Faces Flooding Fears Amid FEMA Uncertainty
As summer approaches, Vermonters are grappling with the impending threat of flooding, further complicated by significant changes to federal disaster relief programs. Concerns are mounting as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) experiences staff reductions and budget cuts under the current administration, posing a potential risk to the state’s disaster recovery efforts.
State and local leaders, including Sarah Henshaw of the Lamoille Area Recovery Network, express anxiety over the reduced capacity of FEMA to support recovery after recent devastating floods in 2023 and 2024. With approximately 20% of permanent staff departing and crucial programs being discontinued, the state could struggle to manage both immediate responses and long-term rebuilding efforts.
During a recent congressional hearing, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem suggested a shift in disaster response responsibilities from FEMA to state governments, echoing sentiments expressed by the current administration. This uncertainty has raised alarms regarding the future of federal support, as Vermont heavily relies on FEMA funding for recovery, receiving average federal assistance of $30.9 million annually.
State Chief Recovery Officer Douglas Farnham reassures that ongoing recovery efforts remain stable; however, worries persist about funding for prospective disasters. Past disasters have already highlighted FEMA’s critical role, with over $190 million allocated to Vermont for various recovery initiatives stemming from recent floods.
Vermont officials and experts warn that the state lacks the necessary resources to adequately respond to future disasters. A federal structure serves to distribute risk and provide necessary manpower, especially in smaller states like Vermont, where maintaining an emergency workforce poses challenges.
As the summer flood season looms, the call for robust federal disaster assistance grows louder, underscoring the essential role of FEMA in safeguarding communities from impending crises.
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