Governors Turn Away from FEMA for Disaster Aid

Why Governors are Turning Away from FEMA for Disaster Aid

In the wake of natural disasters, state leaders have traditionally relied on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for disaster aid. However, a recent trend has emerged, with governors voicing their frustration with FEMA's denial of disaster aid requests. This has left state leaders feeling abandoned and with no one to turn to for assistance. The reasons for FEMA's denials are varied, from a lack of available funds to strict eligibility requirements. For example, in 2019, FEMA denied 50% of requests for aid in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria, citing a lack of evidence of "immediate threats to life." This has caused state leaders to question the reliability of FEMA as a source of disaster aid.