FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell issued a warning on Sunday about the potential shortage in the agency’s disaster relief fund by mid-September. This comes as Maui continues to recover from deadly wildfires that devastated the Hawaiian island, and southern California prepares for its first tropical storm in 84 years. Criswell stated that they anticipate a funding shortage at their current spending levels and will push recovery projects to the next fiscal year to ensure sufficient funds for immediate lifesaving needs. The administration is also working with Congress to facilitate recovery projects for the current year and the next fiscal year.
To avoid a government shutdown this fall, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy suggested passing a short-term extension of last year’s spending priorities, allowing more time for lawmakers to reach a deal for fiscal 2024. Meanwhile, Criswell will accompany President Biden on his first visit to Maui since the wildfires, where they will address the devastating impact and interact with affected families. The official death toll in Maui stands at 114, with over 1,000 people still unaccounted for.
During her appearance on CNN, Criswell mentioned that FEMA is 78% complete with the search efforts in the burned area. The FBI, Department of Defense, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are also assisting in the identification of remains and reuniting family members. Criswell assured that the federal government will support the local vision for rebuilding Lahaina. She emphasized Biden’s aim to reassure the people of Maui that the federal government will assist them in rebuilding according to their vision.
Regarding criticism faced by President Biden for his delayed response to the wildfires, Criswell defended his actions, stating that he directed her to assess the damage, meet with local officials and report back to him. She emphasized ongoing communication with the president to ensure the deployment of necessary federal resources for both immediate response and long-term recovery efforts.
Criswell also addressed Hurricane Hilary, which was downgraded to a tropical storm as it approached Baja California. The storm poses a threat of “catastrophic and life-threatening” flooding in the southwestern United States. Criswell urged people to heed local officials’ warnings and take the storm seriously, while emphasizing the need for increased investment in mitigation projects due to the increasing frequency of severe weather events.
In conclusion, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell highlighted the potential shortage of funding in the agency’s disaster relief fund, the ongoing recovery efforts in Maui, President Biden’s visit to the affected area, and the need for collaboration between the federal government and local officials to support rebuilding efforts. Additionally, she addressed criticism faced by the president and advocated for investment in mitigation projects to combat the effects of climate change.
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