News Summary
Governor Jeff Landry led a FEMA Review Council meeting in New Orleans focused on addressing the need for reforms within the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The meeting, which took place in light of recent flooding events, highlighted concerns over FEMA’s effectiveness and the impact on disaster management, especially as hurricane season approaches. Discussions included potential overhaul strategies and funding alternatives to better equip states in disaster recovery efforts while examining necessary reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program.
New Orleans — Governor Jeff Landry hosted a meeting of the FEMA Review Council in New Orleans on July 9, 2025, aiming to address the urgent need for reform within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The council, established by President Donald Trump, is directed by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who underscored the critical need for changes within the agency, often described as a dysfunctional bureaucracy.
The meeting came at a crucial time, highlighted by the recent severe flooding incidents in Texas and New Mexico, which served as a stark reminder of the necessity for an effective disaster management system. As hurricane season approaches, with above-average storm forecasts for Louisiana, the discussions were particularly pertinent for the state.
Noem articulated a desire for either a restructuring or complete elimination of FEMA, advocating for a transformation into a more responsive and efficient agency. Despite the importance of the discussions, Secretary Noem and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth participated remotely via Zoom, while Governor Landry, not a member of the council, facilitated the meeting.
Governor Landry expressed his support for the reform initiatives but stopped short of calling for FEMA’s total eradication. His primary concern revolves around improving disaster response capabilities, particularly in light of recurring natural disasters that threaten Louisiana communities.
During the meeting, Landry indicated that FEMA’s performance should be enhanced or that it should be replaced with a more competent organization capable of effectively managing disaster recovery operations. President Trump’s position has suggested a reduction in FEMA’s role, proposing that states be granted more authority and responsibility in disaster management, which holds significant implications for Louisiana.
Since 2003, Louisiana has received nearly $47 billion in disaster recovery funding, with residents benefiting from more federal disaster recovery funds per capita than any other state since 2011. The reliance on FEMA funds is substantial, making the potential dismantling of the agency concerning for many in the state.
The council discussed alternative funding mechanisms, such as allowing FEMA to distribute block grants to states. This would potentially give states increased autonomy over the management of disaster recovery efforts. Furthermore, participants emphasized the need for public-private partnerships and the utilization of contractors in expediting vital tasks such as debris removal following a disaster.
In addition to disaster recovery, the meeting touched on expected reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which falls under FEMA’s purview. Suggestions included measures to alleviate ongoing challenges related to homeowners’ insurance in Louisiana, which has contributed to an insurance crisis for many residents.
Although the discussions were critical, significant decisions have been postponed. Following the recent floods in Texas, President Trump has deferred any major discussions regarding the complete dismantling of FEMA until after the 2025 hurricane recovery efforts are concluded. The outcome of these meetings may have long-term effects on disaster management and recovery in Louisiana and beyond, as stakeholders await further developments.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisiana Officials Concerned Over FEMA Funding Cuts Ahead of Hurricane Season
National Hurricane Conference Highlights Federal Absences
Tyson & Mendes, LLP Expands to New Orleans
Additional Resources
- Fox 8 Live
- Wikipedia: Federal Emergency Management Agency
- WWL-TV
- Google Search: FEMA reforms
- WGNO
- Google Scholar: disaster management reform
- NOLA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FEMA
- MSN News
- Google News: disaster recovery
