Trump administration officials, following an executive order, are considering reforms to make it more difficult for states to qualify for federal disaster assistance, aiming to shift more responsibility to states. A memo from acting FEMA administrator Cameron Hamilton suggests increasing the damage threshold for aid and reducing federal cost-sharing, potentially quadrupling the required per capita damage level for assistance. The proposed changes have raised concerns among state emergency managers about the financial burdens they would impose, particularly on rural and less financially capable areas. This approach has led to recent denials of disaster aid requests by states like Washington and Arkansas, despite meeting existing criteria. Critics argue that these reforms could delay recovery efforts and emphasize the need for a balanced discussion on federal and state roles in disaster response.

The proposed reforms aim to significantly increase the threshold for states to qualify for federal disaster aid, effectively requiring a community to suffer much greater damage before receiving assistance.

Hamilton's memo suggests raising the Per Capita Indicator (PCI) from $1.89 to $7.56, focusing federal funds on large-scale disasters and eliminating smaller disaster declarations.

The changes could pose financial challenges for states, as they would need to cover more disaster recovery costs themselves, potentially straining budgets and delaying recovery efforts.

Recent denials of disaster assistance to states like Washington and Arkansas, despite meeting current criteria, have sparked criticism and appeals, highlighting the controversial nature of the proposed reforms.

The proposal also includes reducing the federal cost share for disaster recovery to a maximum of 75%, eliminating assistance for some recreational facilities, and denying aid for snowstorms.

Former FEMA officials and state emergency managers express concern that the abrupt implementation of these changes, without adequate notice or preparation, could leave states unprepared for future disasters.

There is a call for a broader discussion on the balance between federal and state responsibilities in disaster management, with some advocating for a more gradual approach to reform.