119-HRES-1035 Journalist Public Summary
A nonbinding House resolution condemning recent and proposed FEMA staffing cuts, arguing they would slow disaster response and recovery, and urging support for a stable, well‑resourced FEMA workforce. It was introduced on February 3, 2026, and sent to the Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security committees for consideration.
Headline Summary
House Resolution 1035 is a nonbinding statement that condemns recent and proposed cuts to FEMA’s workforce and urges maintaining enough staff to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
What It Does
The resolution states that FEMA’s mission depends on a stable, well‑resourced staff and argues that recent reductions—and any deeper future cuts—would delay disaster response, slow recovery, and weaken support for communities after hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other emergencies. It also warns that shrinking FEMA could undermine terrorism preparedness grants that support first responders. This is a House resolution, so it does not change law or funding; it expresses the House’s position.
Who’s For It
- Lead sponsor: Rep. Bennie Thompson (D‑MS), joined by multiple Democratic cosponsors. They argue that staffing cuts worsen already documented gaps and would slow help to survivors after major disasters.
- Supporters’ reasoning: Keeping experienced FEMA personnel improves response times, preserves institutional know‑how, and supports critical grants for first responders (police, fire, EMS) and high‑risk communities.
Who’s Against It
- Members who favor shrinking the federal workforce or curbing spending are likely to oppose the resolution’s stance. Typical arguments include reducing bureaucracy, improving efficiency through reforms rather than headcount, and prioritizing budget savings.
- Skeptics may also question whether staffing levels—not management or process—are the main drivers of FEMA performance.
What’s Next
As of February 3, 2026, the resolution was referred to the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security. Next steps could include committee consideration and a House floor vote. If adopted, it would register the House’s position; it would not go to the President or change federal law or funding.
Discussion