Trump to sign disaster relief EO putting states, localities in the driver’s seat of responding to catastrophes
President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Monday that will give states and local jurisdictions more control over preparing for and responding to disasters. The order, obtained by Fox News Digital, aims to empower states, localities, and individuals in disaster preparedness and response, while also emphasizing the importance of risk-informed decisions to make infrastructure, communities, and the economy more resilient.
One key aspect of the order is the establishment of the National Resilience Strategy, which will outline priorities for advancing the nation’s resilience and identifying risks to critical infrastructure. The order will also require a review of all infrastructure, continuity, and preparedness policies to ensure they align with the National Resilience Strategy.
The executive order will shift the federal government’s approach to handling disasters from an “all-hazards” approach to a “risk-informed approach” that prioritizes resilience and action. This shift aims to streamline federal functions so that local communities can more easily collaborate with federal leaders in Washington.
President Trump has been critical of the nation’s response to natural disasters under the Biden administration, particularly FEMA’s handling of emergencies. In 2024, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in North Carolina, leading to widespread devastation and criticism of FEMA’s response. Trump has accused FEMA of obstructing relief efforts in Republican areas and has called for states to take more responsibility for disaster response.
In January, Trump signed an executive order establishing the FEMA Review Council to improve the agency’s effectiveness in providing disaster assistance. The order aimed to address concerns of political bias within FEMA and ensure that vulnerable Americans receive the support they need during emergencies.
Trump has also criticized left-wing policies, such as California’s water infrastructure policies, which he believes have exacerbated natural disasters like wildfires. In response to the wildfires in California, Trump signed an executive order providing additional water resources to the state to aid in disaster response.
Overall, the executive order Trump is expected to sign on Monday continues his efforts to empower states and local communities in disaster preparedness and response. By shifting power from Washington to the American people, Trump aims to make infrastructure, communities, and the economy more resilient to global threats and hazards. This executive order underscores Trump’s commitment to prioritizing resilience and action in disaster management.
