H.R. 2308: FEMA Independence Act of 2025

This bill, titled the FEMA Independence Act of 2025, proposes to establish the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent, cabinet-level agency within the executive branch of the U.S. government. Here’s a breakdown of its main provisions:

1. Establishment as an Independent Agency

FEMA will be restructured to function independently, reporting directly to the President rather than being under the Department of Homeland Security. This change aims to enhance its efficacy in managing emergency situations.

2. Leadership Structure

• Director: A Director will be appointed by the President, with Senate approval. The Director must have substantial experience in emergency management and homeland security.
• Deputy Directors: The bill allows for up to four Deputy Directors, also appointed by the President, to assist the Director.
• Regional Offices: The agency will have ten regional offices, each headed by a Regional Director selected by the Director.

3. Authorities and Responsibilities

The Director will have various responsibilities, including:

• Leading efforts to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the impacts of disasters and hazards.
• Administering the Stafford Act, which outlines federal disaster relief and emergency assistance.
• Coordinating national emergency management efforts and consolidating federal response plans into the National Response Plan.
• Managing resources and personnel for response and recovery operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.

4. Office of Inspector General

An Office of the Inspector General will be established within FEMA to oversee the agency’s operations and ensure accountability.

5. Transition Period

The bill outlines a transition period where functions and responsibilities will be transferred from the current organizational structure to the new independent agency within one year of the bill’s enactment. The Secretary of Homeland Security will provide necessary assistance during this transition.

6. Protection of Personnel Rights

Current employees will not face job loss or demotion for a period of one year following the transition, ensuring stability for personnel during the changeover.

7. Conforming Amendments

The bill will require amendments to various existing laws to reflect FEMA’s new status and responsibilities, including updates to ensure references to the agency are correct and consistent across legislation.

8. Recommendations for Future Legislation

After implementation, the Director will prepare a report with recommendations for any additional legislation needed to align other laws with this restructuring.

Relevant Companies

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