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Reps. Carter, Ezell, and Thompson Introduce FEMA Workforce Planning Act to Enhance Disaster Response Capacity

Reps. Carter, Ezell, and Thompson Introduce FEMA Workforce Planning Act to Enhance Disaster Response Capacity

Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), alongside Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS), introduced the Federal Emergency Mobilization Accountability (FEMA) Workforce Planning Act. This bipartisan legislation mandates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) develop and submit comprehensive workforce plans to Congress every three years. The act aims to ensure FEMA possesses the necessary capacity to effectively respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. Key provisions include improving employee recruitment and retention, developing strategies for efficient workforce training and deployment, and utilizing data to address and rectify staffing deficiencies within the agency. The bill emphasizes the growing intensity and duration of storms, highlighting the need for enhanced preparedness.

FEMA Workforce Planning Act Introduced to Enhance Disaster Response Capacity

FEMA Workforce Planning Act Introduced to Enhance Disaster Response Capacity

Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), alongside Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS), has introduced the Federal Emergency Mobilization Accountability (FEMA) Workforce Planning Act. This bipartisan legislation mandates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) develop and submit comprehensive workforce plans to Congress every three years. The primary goal is to ensure FEMA possesses the necessary capacity to effectively respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. The act requires FEMA to improve its recruitment and retention efforts, develop strategies for efficient workforce training and deployment, and utilize data to identify and address staffing gaps. The plans must adhere to best practices outlined by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Comptroller General of the United States. Key components of these plans include performance measures for human capital goals, details on employee types, cost analysis for implementation, strategies...

Senators Schumer and Gillibrand Announce Over $13.2 Million in Federal Funding for Upstate New York Fire Departments

Senators Schumer and Gillibrand Announce Over $13.2 Million in Federal Funding for Upstate New York Fire Departments

U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have announced over $13.2 million in federal funding for numerous fire departments across Upstate New York. This substantial financial injection, totaling $13,230,088.46, is designated to equip emergency personnel with essential protective gear, provide critical training, and supply necessary resources. The funding is being administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via its Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. Senator Schumer played a pivotal role in the creation of these programs, and both senators have actively advocated for their preservation and continued funding. Fire chiefs from various departments, including Syracuse and North Tonawanda, expressed gratitude, highlighting how the funds will enhance safety and operational capabilities, such as advanced driver training and paramedic certi...

Congressman Jeff Van Drew Secures Federal Funding for Cape May County Beach Replenishment Following Storm Damage

Congressman Jeff Van Drew Secures Federal Funding for Cape May County Beach Replenishment Following Storm Damage

Congressman Jeff Van Drew has secured $99 million in federal funding for beach replenishment projects in Cape May County, New Jersey. This funding is crucial as recent storms have caused significant erosion along the Jersey Shore, particularly in Van Drew's 2nd Congressional District, which includes coastal towns in Atlantic and Cape May counties and parts of Ocean County. Following a powerful coastal storm that resulted in substantial sand loss and dune damage, Van Drew announced plans to meet with high-level officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Army Corps of Engineers. The purpose of these meetings is to discuss federal assistance to aid South Jersey beach communities in their recovery efforts. Local officials, including Sea Isle City Mayor Leonard Desiderio and Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian, have acknowledged the protective role of recent replenishment projects in mitigating property damage, despite the extensive erosion. The storm's impact, while severe, was compared to ...

Man gets 6 years in prison for taking explosives to church hosting annual Red Mass for justices

Man gets 6 years in prison for taking explosives to church hosting annual Red Mass for justices

A New Jersey man has been sentenced to nearly six years in prison for taking homemade explosive devices to a Washington, D.C., church that was preparing for an annual Mass celebrating the start of the Supreme Court’s term

Nor’easter Storm Weakens After Causing Flooding and Power Outages in the US

Nor’easter Storm Weakens After Causing Flooding and Power Outages in the US

A powerful Nor’easter storm has caused significant disruption across the Mid-Atlantic and New England states in the United States. Heavy rains, strong winds, and coastal flooding have been reported, with one confirmed fatality in Brooklyn, New York, due to a falling tree. The storm has led to widespread power outages, with approximately 14,000 customers in the Mid-Atlantic and 12,000 in New England still without electricity as of 8:00 am ET. Coastal communities, including Sea Bright and Atlantic City in New Jersey and Long Island, have experienced flooding and beach erosion. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves northeastward into the Gulf of Maine, with rain tapering off by late Tuesday morning.

Representative Walberg Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts

Representative Walberg Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts

On September 28, 2026, Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), David Joyce (R-OH), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Tom Barrett (R-MI), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This bipartisan and bicameral bill aims to enhance federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. The legislation proposes designating the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation is intended to ensure the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, thereby providing federal resources to support the GLC's ongoing work in coordinating Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. Companion legislation has also been advanced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH).

Oregon Leaders Secure $14.5 Million Federal Funding for Tsunami-Resilient Hospital Expansion After Trump Administration Withholding

Oregon Leaders Secure $14.5 Million Federal Funding for Tsunami-Resilient Hospital Expansion After Trump Administration Withholding

Oregon's U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, and Oregon State Representative Cyrus Javadi, announced the release of over $14.5 million in federal funds for Clatsop County and Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) in Astoria. This funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is designated for a tsunami-resilient hospital expansion that includes a vertical evacuation structure capable of accommodating 1,900 people. The project aims to enhance disaster preparedness and healthcare access along the North Coast. The funding, initially awarded under FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, had been withheld after the Trump administration suspended the program in 2025. Following legal challenges and persistent advocacy from Oregon lawmakers, the funds have now been released, allowing the critical project to move forward.

I live across from a Flock camera. Take them all down | Your Turn

I live across from a Flock camera. Take them all down | Your Turn

Are Flock cameras and similar surveillance abuse of the Fourth Amendment, Orwellian or necessary protection? Readers sound off in our Opinion Forum.

Flood Insurance Gaps for Basements in NJ and NY

Flood Insurance Gaps for Basements in NJ and NY

Flooding in basements, particularly in New Jersey and New York, often leaves homeowners grappling with insurance coverage gaps. Standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage caused by external water sources, such as rising water or storm runoff. Even federal flood insurance policies (NFIP) provide limited coverage for basements, excluding finished flooring like carpet, wood, or tile. FEMA assistance is only available if a federal disaster declaration includes Individual Assistance for the affected county. Homeowners are advised to document all damage thoroughly and file claims promptly. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also offers disaster loans for uncovered losses. Late summer and early fall, coinciding with hurricane remnants, are peak seasons for basement flooding in the region, as seen during events like Hurricane Ida in 2021.

Congressman Langworthy Secures Nearly $200,000 in Federal Funding for Western New York Fire Departments

Congressman Langworthy Secures Nearly $200,000 in Federal Funding for Western New York Fire Departments

Congressman Nick Langworthy announced that three fire departments in Western New York will receive nearly $200,000 in federal funding. The grants, distributed through FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, are designated for equipment and technology upgrades. Specifically, the Village of Alden will receive nearly $26,000, the Village of Farnham will get over $125,000, and the Scranton Volunteer Fire Company will be allocated approximately $48,000. This federal investment aims to modernize the operations of these local departments, providing them with essential resources such as upgraded radios, turnout gear, and air packs. Congressman Langworthy emphasized the importance of this funding in ensuring that first responders have the necessary support to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Charlotte Leaders Consider Stricter Curfew for Minors Amid Public Safety Concerns

Charlotte Leaders Consider Stricter Curfew for Minors Amid Public Safety Concerns

Charlotte leaders are currently evaluating the implementation of a stricter curfew for individuals under the age of 18. This consideration stems from ongoing discussions regarding public safety and the desire to address issues related to juvenile activity during late hours. The proposed changes aim to modify existing regulations to potentially limit the times minors are permitted in public spaces without adult supervision. This initiative is part of a broader effort by city officials to enhance community well-being and reduce incidents that may involve underage individuals. The specifics of the stricter curfew, including exact hours and enforcement mechanisms, are still under review and subject to further debate among city council members and community stakeholders. The discussions reflect a growing concern among local authorities about the need for more stringent measures to ensure the safety and accountability of young people within the city.