Project 2025 Proposes Devastating Cuts to NOAA and FEMA Funding
- As the election nears, government agencies responsible for weather forecasting and disaster recovery are facing significant scrutiny.
- Project 2025 outlines plans to reduce federal funding and support for FEMA and NOAA, suggesting a shift of disaster recovery burden to state governments.
- Experts warn that these proposed cuts could leave the U.S. more vulnerable to extreme weather and result in delayed response and recovery times.
Government weather and disaster agencies have become increasingly politicized, particularly as the 2024 election approaches. With the political landscape heavily influenced by conservative policies, Project 2025, created by the Heritage Foundation, suggests drastic changes and funding cuts to NOAA and FEMA. Currently, federal aid covers at least 75% of major disaster costs; however, proposals indicate this share could decrease to as low as 25%, placing greater recovery burdens on state budgets. This shift is particularly concerning given the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters. Experts warn that such changes could exacerbate vulnerabilities to extreme weather, potentially leading to slower responses and higher loss of life in future disasters. The impact of diminishing federal support could also undermine trust in government institutions dedicated to climate resilience and disaster recovery efforts.