Fact Sheet: FEMA/Preparedness Transition
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was created by a Presidential Executive Order in 1979. FEMA became part of the Department of Homeland Security in 2003.
The Post-Katrina Emergency Reform Act of 2006 ("the Act") amended the Homeland Security Act and the President's Katrina Lessons Learned Report and directed changes to FEMA and DHS' organizational structure and included the realigning of several functions into FEMA. These changes became effective April 1, 2007.
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Major Preparedness functions and programs to include the Office of Grants and Training, the United States Fire Administration, National Capital Region Coordination, Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness and the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program transferred to FEMA.
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The FEMA Director, R. David Paulison, became the FEMA Administrator, a new title provided under the Act. He reports directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security and can be called upon by the President to serve as a member of the Cabinet in the event of natural disasters, acts of terrorism or other man-made disasters.
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The Act also includes provisions relating to FEMA's regional structure and provides a renewed focus on the Regions as the backbone for FEMA's relationship with state and local partners-an essential element for successful emergency management. FEMA's 10 Regional Directors become Regional Administrators.
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Also, a new, permanent position is being added to FEMA's senior leadership team -- Law Enforcement Advisor to the Administrator. This person will play a critical role, participating in planning meetings and being on-hand during times of crisis. The office will ensure that law enforcement has a seat at the table and FEMA gains additional perspective on the issues of prevention and protection when making and executing plans.
The new organization strengthens FEMA's coordination with other DHS components, as well as agencies and departments outside of DHS. It incorporates the concept of preparedness into all FEMA programs. And, it enhances FEMA's capabilities to partner with emergency management and preparedness organizations and the private sector nationwide.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Monday, 02-Apr-2007 10:39:03 EDT