The Trump administration approved major disaster declarations this week for Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Washington, enabling these states to access federal support for recovery efforts. The announcement came via a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) briefing document, marking a shift in disaster relief efforts under Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
Despite these approvals, roughly 15 disaster requests from other states and tribes remain pending, along with three appeals of previous denials. The ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, now in its eighth week, threatens to strain FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, which currently faces depletion. A DHS appropriations bill proposed to replenish the fund with over $26 billion has yet to pass.
Delays and Denials Spark Criticism
Some communities have faced unprecedented delays in receiving responses to disaster requests. An Associated Press analysis from September revealed that approvals now take over a month on average, compared to less than two weeks in the 1990s and early 2000s. Arizona has waited nearly three months for a decision on its appeal after being denied support for severe storms and flooding last September. Meanwhile, Democrat-led states like Maryland have criticized the administration for denying disaster declarations despite demonstrated need.
“We’re trying to push this stuff forward as fast as possible,” Mullin said during a visit to survey Hurricane Helene recovery efforts in North Carolina.
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson emphasized that President Trump reviews disaster requests “with great care and consideration,” aiming to ensure federal funds supplement—not replace—state and local recovery efforts. The administration has also encouraged states to invest in disaster resilience proactively.
Uncertain Future for FEMA
While Mullin has affirmed his commitment to FEMA’s mission, the agency’s future remains uncertain. President Trump has expressed a desire to shift more disaster response responsibilities to state governments. A FEMA Review Council appointed last year has yet to release recommendations on potential sweeping changes to federal disaster support policies.
As hurricane season approaches, FEMA’s ability to respond effectively may depend on resolving funding disputes and streamlining disaster declaration processes.