According to the White House, new rules streamline the federal government will support state and local communities in the event of an emergency.
President Donald Trump is planning to sign an executive order that empowers state and local leaders to respond in preparation for natural disasters and other emergencies.
A new law comes days after North Carolina’s wildfires burned a charred piece, establishing a national resilience strategy to bolster preparation efforts and strengthen federal responses.
A review of all infrastructure, continuity plans, and preparation and response policies is required to achieve the goals listed in the order.
The White House provided the Epoch Times, so guidelines relating to the country’s critical infrastructure (such as water, energy, transportation) will change to fit current risk assessments.
The order, according to the fact sheet, prioritizes “resilience and actions to mere information sharing.”
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Rather than relying on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to oversee disaster response, local governments have the authority to promote preparation and response with the support of the federal government.
Other changes include a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s continuity policy, aimed at protecting the government in the event of catastrophic events such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other unexpected events.
New policies following the establishment of the Government Efficiency President, an advisory body aimed at reducing federal costs and increasing efficiency, will scale back operations to improve “sustainable preparation.”
National risk registrations have also been established to identify risks and opportunities for strengthening operations and reducing waste.
The order says it is suitable for state and local governments by enhancing federal functions.
“President Trump knows that Americans need quick and effective help when a crisis strikes. “Local leaders and citizens know their needs best. They’re not bureaucrats in Washington, D.C.
According to the White House, the move reflects the president’s belief that disaster preparedness and policy are essential to his “America First” strategy, achieving his long-standing goal of restoring the balance of power among people.
The agency faces surveillance from Republicans over its handling of recent disasters, including Hurricane Helen and Milton, which struck the southeastern United States in 2024.
Cameron Hamilton, current acting FEMA administrator, wrote on social media platform X that the changes are coming to the agency.
Tom Ozimek and Jack Phillips contributed to this report.
