NACo testifies on the critical role of counties in disasters
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NACo Intergovernmental Disaster Reform Task Force Co-Chair and Harris County, Texas Commissioner Adrian Garcia testifies before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, highlighting counties' critical roles during disasters and outlining key task force recommendations aimed at efficient and effective FEMA assistance.
Featured Initiative
Intergovernmental Disaster Reform Task Force
As disasters intensify across the country, county governments play a crucial role on the frontlines of emergency management and recovery. With a commitment to advancing federal policies that foster collaboration between counties, federal agencies and other intergovernmental partners, the Task Force builds on years of county-led efforts to enhance disaster policies and practices, driving improved outcomes nationwide.
County Countdown – September 9, 2025
Every other week, NACo's County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership. This week features FEMA reform bill advancement, a major reorganization of the USDA and more.
Counties Advocate for Passage of FEMA Act Alongside National Preparedness Month
NACo recognizes September as National Preparedness Month, an opportunity to highlight the essential role of counties in preparing for and responding to disasters. Counties will advocate throughout the month for passage of the FEMA Act (H.R. 4669), which was approved last Tuesday by the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee by a vote of 57-3.
FEMA reform bill advances to House floor
The Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act would overhaul Public and Individual Assistance and accelerate mitigation programs and make the Federal Emergency Management Agency an independent, cabinet-level agency.
Pacific Northwest counties prepare for ‘The Big One’
Counties in Oregon and Washington are preparing for the devastating earthquake and tsunami that scientists say is coming in the next 50 years.
Federal judge temporarily halts BRIC grant program termination
August 6, 2025 Update: A federal court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from reallocating funds from FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program after 20 states sued to halt the move, arguing it would endanger communities by undermining disaster preparedness efforts.
Podcast: County experience can improve disaster response
Kevin Leonard, executive director of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, and Amanda McKinney, a Yakima County, Wash. commissioner, talk about two different challenges county officials face in responding to disasters.
GoFundMe’s Crisis Response Playbook: Trusted Solutions for Counties
This webinar will showcase how GoFundMe serves as a trusted partner for counties and communities in times of crisis.