With monies being sent elsewhere by the Biden Administration, FEMA appears to be facing a shortfall of funds. The Department of Homeland Security says more money is needed for the rest of the hurricane season. The funds are used in a variety of ways. DHS is asking for additional funding towards FEMA preparedness.
At a Glance
- DHS announced $210 million more in Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds.
- Total NSGP funding for 2024 is $664 million.
- Funds target protection of faith-based institutions against attacks.
- DHS proposed a supplemental spending bill for disaster preparedness.
Funding Initiatives for Disaster Preparedness
FEMA is suffering a shortfall of funds to help Americans affected by hurricanes this year.. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, aboard Air Force One, highlighted the issue of insufficient funds that threaten FEMA’s capacity to address disasters. In response, a supplemental spending bill is proposed for the upcoming fall, emphasizing the importance of enhancing federal support and state resilience for impending natural calamities.
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) sees an increase to $664 million for fiscal year 2024, more than doubling the previous year’s allocation. This funding aims to shield faith-based and nonprofit organizations from targeted threats. Secretary Mayorkas emphasized, “Now, when we continue to live in a heightened threat environment, the security-enhancing grant funds…are more critical than ever.”
There are many that feel that much of the lack of funds can be attributed to President Biden’s spending billions on illegals for resettlement. Also, Ukraine received 2.7 billion recently for their ongoing war with Russia. That affects the lack of funds necessary for Americans facing difficulties at home.
Kamala Harris and Joe Biden spent $1 BILLION in FEMA funds to resettle illegal immigrants into the US: https://t.co/xyivnOvca5
— Rep. Mary Miller (@RepMaryMiller) October 3, 2024
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Enhancements
Alongside disaster preparedness, DHS announced $279.9 million for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) to assist governments in reducing cyber risks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and FEMA jointly manage this program, designed for enhancing cybersecurity planning, recruiting cyber personnel, and improving vital services. CISA Director Jen Easterly noted, “These cyber grants are an investment in the security of our nation’s infrastructure.”
Secretary Mayorkas reiterated the importance of a robust response to cyber threats, highlighting the reach and ruthlessness of cyber actors. “In the modern threat landscape, every community can — and too often does — face sophisticated cyberattacks on vital systems like hospitals, schools, and electrical grids,” he explained.
Hurricane Preparedness and Response Measures
Hurricane Helene’s effect on the southeast caused The Biden-Harris Administration to authorize a pre-landfall emergency declaration for Florida. FEMA responded with appropriate measures to facilitate Florida and other states. However, Helene also marked the shortages that FEMA is now facing.
Hurricane Helene renews calls for Congress to pass disaster funding https://t.co/t811wYU6Ff via @WSAV
— WSAV News 3 (@WSAV) October 2, 2024
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) suggests improvements for managing fraud risks, including regular assessments and training for grant recipients.
