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Debate Over FEMA’s Role
Supporters of restructuring argue that the existing system gives Washington too much authority and creates unnecessary federal spending. They contend that state governments are often better positioned to understand local conditions and can respond more efficiently when decisions are made closer to affected communities.
Under such an approach, states would take a larger role in disaster planning, emergency response and recovery, while the federal government would provide more limited assistance when circumstances exceed state capabilities.
Major hurricanes, catastrophic wildfires and widespread flooding can require enormous amounts of personnel, equipment, funding and logistical coordination. Critics argue that FEMA provides capabilities that many individual states cannot easily replicate.
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