States Challenge Federal Cuts to Disaster Preparedness Program
In a significant legal move, twenty states, including Michigan, have filed a lawsuit to prevent proposed reductions by the Trump administration to a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) initiative crucial for disaster prevention. This initiative, known as the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, aims to bolster communities against natural calamities.
Michigan stands to receive $29 million through BRIC, a program crafted to enhance disaster preparedness by reinforcing infrastructure. Proponents argue that BRIC minimizes human misfortune and financial losses by fortifying systems against the impact of natural disasters.
The Trump administration’s intent to cut BRIC is part of broader efforts to reduce “waste, fraud and abuse.”
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has publicly criticized the proposed rollback, describing it as both “illegal and irresponsible.” Nessel emphasized the program’s effectiveness, particularly in light of recent severe weather events in Michigan. “Michigan has seen in recent years just how devastating severe storms and flooding can be,” she stated. “The BRIC program has proven effective at protecting lives and strengthening infrastructure before disasters strike. Shutting it down is not only unlawful but — as the recent tragedy in Texas makes all too clear — recklessly dangerous.”
According to Nessel, BRIC grants are pivotal for funding initiatives such as stormwater management, flood defenses, severe weather shelters, and the enforcement of disaster-resilient building standards. Without these funds, ongoing resilience projects risk cancellation unless alternative financial sources are found.
A formal complaint submitted in a U.S. District Court in Boston highlights the nationwide impact of the funding cuts. “Communities across the country are being forced to delay, scale back, or cancel hundreds of mitigation projects depending on this funding. Projects that have been in development for years, and in which communities have invested millions of dollars for planning, permitting, and environmental review are now threatened,” states the complaint. “And in the meantime, Americans across the country face a higher risk of harm from natural disasters.”
The lawsuit contends that the proposed FEMA cuts infringe upon Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending. Additionally, it points out that FEMA has been operating under interim leadership, lacking the full authority of a confirmed director. The suit further argues that these cuts breach the Administrative Procedure Act, which is designed to prevent impulsive executive actions.
Ultimately, the lawsuit seeks a court order to halt the discontinuation of the BRIC program and to stop the diversion of its funds by the Trump administration.
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