Florida lawmakers propose detaching FEMA from DHS

Two Florida lawmakers, Jared Moskowitz, a Democrat, and Byron Donalds, a Republican, have introduced a new bill to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Their proposal aims to separate FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to improve its efficiency and response to disasters. The bill, named the FEMA Independence Act, seeks to turn FEMA into an independent Cabinet-level agency. Moskowitz believes this change will help FEMA focus better on its main job: providing emergency aid. He has firsthand experience with the challenges of disaster management and insists that quick responses are essential. The proposed legislation includes requirements for appointing a director for FEMA. This director must have at least five years of leadership experience and a strong background in emergency management and homeland security. Both lawmakers agree that FEMA has become too bureaucratic and politicized under its current structure. Donalds emphasized the need for FEMA to act swiftly and effectively during disasters. He stated that the agency should report directly to the President, which could streamline its operations. This effort comes in the wake of criticism regarding FEMA's handling of resources and allegations of political bias. Recent reports highlighted concerns about how funds were allocated, leading to calls for significant changes in the agency.