The Department of Homeland Security is sounding the alarm over a looming disaster relief funding crisis as the peak of hurricane season threatens more devastation than ever.
At a Glance
- DHS warns of insufficient funds for FEMA’s disaster relief.
- Discussions for a supplemental spending bill are underway.
- Over 3,200 organizations received NSGP funding for security upgrades.
- The Biden Administration enacted an emergency declaration for Florida.
Impending Funding Shortfall
The Department of Homeland Security has announced a significant shortfall in funding for disaster relief operations. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has brought attention to the dwindling reserves, as the hurricane season grows more intense. Effective disaster relief operations are at risk, particularly those managed by FEMA, amid growing disaster threats. The Biden Administration and legislators are in discussions about enacting a supplemental spending bill in the fall to address these financial challenges.
Despite this financial strain, the department announced an additional $210 million allocated to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. This funding enhances security for nonprofit organizations and faith-based institutions, which are increasingly targeted. FEMA awarded over $454 million in 2024 to more than 3,200 organizations for security improvements.
DHS makes it easier for multiple agencies to join forces on disaster response and preparedness through the @FEMA National Hurricane Program. These efforts support emergency managers nationwide with tools, resources, training and technical assistance in hurricane preparedness,… pic.twitter.com/6o3hfMQCWU
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) September 19, 2024
Other Funding Initiatives
The Department of Homeland Security also announced $279.9 million in grant funding through the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program to combat cyber threats. Administered by FEMA and CISA, this program focuses on reducing cyber risks and bolstering the cybersecurity resilience of state, local, and territorial governments. These efforts help protect essential services against sophisticated cyber threats.
“FEMA is committed to helping our partners address and withstand cybersecurity threats to both infrastructure and systems,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.
The impact of cyber threats on infrastructure, such as hospitals and schools, is a growing concern. State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Programs aim to alleviate these risks by providing resources for cybersecurity planning and personnel.
Urgent Disaster Preparedness Efforts
With Hurricane Helene expected to affect multiple states, the Biden Administration approved a pre-landfall emergency declaration for Florida. This move underscores the urgent need for preparedness and coordinated response efforts by FEMA. The agency has activated its National and Regional Response Coordination Centers, pre-positioning critical resources and personnel to help communities bracing for the storm.
“Now, when we continue to live in a heightened threat environment, the security-enhancing grant funds we provide to non-profit organizations are more critical than ever,” said Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.
FEMA’s communication improvements are critical for managing fraud risks and ensuring efficient grant allocation. The agency provided nearly $10 billion in grants for emergency work post-2017 disasters and aims to continue these efforts while addressing fraud risks with improved assessment and training.
