Tuesday, September 27, 2005

Michael Brown: It is not FEMA's job to manage emergencies

A quick note before I go on my factory farm field trip.

Michael Brown just told congress that "the Federal Emergency Management Agency had gotten a bum rap because many people incorrectly believe it serves as something of a federal rapid-response force." (quote from NYT) {added: The NYT has changed the posted article so that the quote I had is no longer in there.)

But this is what it says on the web site for DHS, which houses FEMA
In the event of a terrorist attack, natural disaster or other large-scale emergency, the Department of Homeland Security will assume primary responsibility on March 1st for ensuring that emergency response professionals are prepared for any situation. This will entail providing a coordinated, comprehensive federal response to any large-scale crisis and mounting a swift and effective recovery effort. The new Department will also prioritize the important issue of citizen preparedness. Educating America's families on how best to prepare their homes for a disaster and tips for citizens on how to respond in a crisis will be given special attention at DHS.


What part of "primary responsibility" don't you understand?

No comments: