WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Dale Strong began his new role as the chairman of a key subcommittee at a hearing Tuesday analyzing the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s responses to recent natural disasters and handling of taxpayer dollars.
Strong (R-Monrovia) was a first responder in Madison County for four decades and was selected by his peers to lead the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology.
“With over four decades of experience as a first responder, having served the people of Alabama as both an EMT and volunteer firefighter, I am honored to serve as chairman of this subcommittee,” said Strong. “I am committed to using this subcommittee to advance the cause of first responders and emergency managers across the nation, making sure they are prepared and resilient against all challenges.”
The panel focuses on emergency preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery; Department of Homeland Security grant programs; homeland security research and development; and the mitigation of weapons of mass destruction and health security threats. It maintains oversight of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Science and Technology Directorate, the Office of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction, and the Office of Health Security.
Strong said it was appropriate that the subcommittee’s first hearing was on FEMA – the nation’s main disaster relief agency.
“FEMA oversees national preparedness grants and federal disaster assistance, coordinates relief efforts, and ensures our nation is able to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters,” he said. “Recent events have overwhelmed our states and localities and challenged their ability to mobilize and help their communities. In 2024 alone, FEMA responded to and administered resources for 100 Major Disaster Declarations.”
He referenced two fires that devastated parts of California and said while FEMA responded to the situations, providing aid in similar circumstances could be improved.
“Beginning in January of this year, fires in Los Angeles County and Southern California caused damage and economic loss that is projected to be between $250 billion and $275 billion, which would make it the costliest single disaster in our nation’s history, surpassing the record set by Hurricane Katrina,” said Strong. “Our states and localities deserve all the help they can get in protecting people’s lives and property against deadly disasters.
“The aid that FEMA delivers before and after disasters is greatly appreciated and greatly needed. But as recent events demonstrate, there is room for improvement.”
According to the NOAA, natural disasters last year caused 568 fatalities and damages totaling approximately $182.7 billion. Hurricanes Helene and Milton alone caused 251 deaths with $113.9 billion in damages.
Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman was among those who testified at the hearing.
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