A policy adopted earlier this year and due to go into effect next March would require states to plan for climate change before they are eligible to receive grant funding to plan for disasters.
"A new Federal Emergency Management Agency policy requiring states to address climate change before they can become eligible for grant funding is drawing fire from congressional Republicans," reports Lydia Wheeler. "The regulations, part of a FEMA State Mitigation Plan Review Guide [pdf] issued last month, are not set to take effect until next March. But lawmakers are demanding an explanation for the rules now."
According to Wheeler, a group of Republican senators sent a strongly worded letter to FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate to protest the policy.
Don Jergler wrote an earlier article that provides more clarity on the policy, its effects, and the media and political fallout that has resulted since its announcement. More than one article has insinuated that the policy is directed at climate change denying governors such as Florida's Rick Scott and Louisiana's Bobby Jindal.
FULL STORY: Feds to require climate change plans for states seeking disaster relief
Adapting Building Codes to Natural Disasters Saves Billions
New research shows that modern building codes have prevented around $27 billion in damage from natural disasters between 2000 and 2016, yet many cities still operate under decades-old regulations.
When Coastal States Kill Building Codes, FEMA Pays
Despite the increasing number and intensity of natural disasters, some vulnerable states are relaxing building regulations and leaving the federal government to pick up the tab when tragedy strikes again.
Research Shows White Communities Gain Affluence After Climate Disasters
People of color and lower-income residents tend to lose wealth despite the stated goals of federal assistance programs to restore communities impacted by disasters.
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
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Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
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