Media: https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTcyYTQ4YTRmcHhnMnV0eDdydGNta242MzVyMnVvNDJyMWlubjh6bzBkaDFjM29jNiZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/p8soxFA483cLvJTGwb/giphy.gifTitle: The Trump Administration’s Impact on FEMA Reforms Under the Biden Administration
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has long been criticized for failing to adequately assist vulnerable disaster survivors. This issue was particularly evident during the 2020 Oregon wildfires, where FEMA denied about 70% of assistance applications related to these massive fires. However, under the Biden administration, some reforms were implemented that aimed at addressing these long-standing problems.
These changes included simplifying forms for disaster victims, loosening residency requirements, and making essential items like food and diapers available immediately after a disaster. These measures represented significant progress in ensuring that FEMA was better equipped to help those who needed it most. However, the Trump administration’s policies have put these reforms at risk.
President Trump has repeatedly expressed his belief that FEMA should not exist in its current form and has moved to eliminate so-called equity programs designed to ensure that federal assistance is available to all Americans regardless of their economic status, geographic location or ethnic background. This has resulted in the loss of billions of dollars’ worth of programs and hundreds of staff members at FEMA.
While a recent White House budget request did include an increase in disaster relief funding for FEMA, this progress is threatened by the ongoing work of a presidentially appointed review council tasked with recommending further cuts or eliminations to FEMA services. This situation raises serious concerns about the future of these vital reforms and their impact on vulnerable communities across the United States.
In conclusion, it is crucial that we continue to advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of disaster survivors, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The progress made under the Biden administration was a step in the right direction; however, without continued support from future administrations and policymakers, these hard-won gains could be lost forever. It is essential that we remain vigilant and engaged in ensuring that FEMA remains committed to serving all Americans during their time of need.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/06/05/nx-s1-5413185/fema-equity-disaster-trump-reform-hurricane-wildfire) #fema
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