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FEMA Halts Disaster Recovery Funding Amid Government Shutdown

2/23/2026

Center

FEMA Suspends Funding

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will halt funding for non-emergency disaster recovery projects due to the ongoing government shutdown.
Secretary Kristi Noem said FEMA will focus solely on life-saving operations.
This action marks the 11th funding suspension since 2003.
FEMA has a $9.6 billion disaster fund, but restrictions could delay long-term rebuilding efforts.
The Department of Homeland Security is considering purchasing a luxury jet for deportations and Cabinet travel.

Left

Noem Faces Scrutiny

Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS), faces mounting criticism as a partial government shutdown affects disaster relief and airport security.
Reports describe a 'culture of fear' within DHS and impeachment calls for obstruction of Congress and immigration enforcement.
Following fatal shootings of citizens by ICE agents in Minneapolis, Noem's leadership faces scrutiny as Trump allies doubt her effectiveness, and she pursues a Senate run in South Dakota.

History

Historical Context

Since its incorporation into the Department of Homeland Security in March 2003, FEMA has faced ongoing funding challenges, impacting disaster recovery efforts. The agency's budget was $9.6 billion, yet funding suspensions occurred 11 times, echoing past criticisms of its performance during crises like Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Secretary Kristi Noem's recent decision to halt non-emergency projects amid a government shutdown raises concerns about future disaster preparedness.

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FEMA Suspends Funding

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will halt funding for non-emergency disaster recovery projects due to the ongoing government shutdown.
Secretary Kristi Noem said FEMA will focus solely on life-saving operations.
This action marks the 11th funding suspension since 2003.
FEMA has a $9.6 billion disaster fund, but restrictions could delay long-term rebuilding efforts.
The Department of Homeland Security is considering purchasing a luxury jet for deportations and Cabinet travel.

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