For Release: Tuesday, May 9, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO COSPONSORS LEGISLATION TO MAKE FEMA
AN INDEPENDENT, CABINET-LEVEL AGENCY

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry F. Costello (D-IL) announced that he is a cosponsor of bipartisan legislation being introduced today to return the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to independent agency status and make it a cabinet-level agency.  FEMA was made a part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of the legislation that created DHS.   The bill is being sponsored by members of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.  Costello is a senior Democrat on the Committee.

"I am confident that this legislation will return FEMA to its place as one of the most effective federal agencies," said Costello, the former senior Democrat on the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee.  "I was never in favor of moving FEMA to DHS in the first place.  It clearly has suffered from inattention and the ineptitude of its leadership, but I do not agree with those that say FEMA should be dismantled.  It should be revitalized.  We saw during the Clinton administration how vital a well-run FEMA is during times of crisis."

During the debate over the creation of DHS, Costello sponsored an amendment to keep FEMA as an independent agency, but it was defeated.  The legislation being introduced, the Restoring Emergency Services to Protect Our Nation from Disasters Act (RESPOND), would also address FEMA's staffing needs and strengthen overall disaster preparedness. 

"Hurricane season is three weeks away, and we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of last summer," said Costello.  "As we saw in New Orleans, the American people expect the federal government to be there for them during natural disasters, and we need a strong, effective FEMA to make sure these needs are met."

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