Federal Emergency Management Continuity Act of 2025
Summary
The Federal Emergency Management Continuity Act of 2025 ensures that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can continue to obligate and disburse funds from the Disaster Relief Fund even during a lapse in government appropriations. This bill aims to prevent disruptions in disaster relief, emergency assistance, and recovery programs. It designates employees necessary for these functions as 'excepted employees,' protecting them from furlough during funding gaps.
Expected Effects
This act will allow FEMA to maintain essential services during government shutdowns. It ensures that disaster relief programs authorized under the Stafford Act, including individual and public assistance, continue without interruption. This continuity is intended to protect life and property during emergencies, regardless of the appropriations status.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuous disaster relief funding during government shutdowns.
- Protects essential FEMA employees from furlough during funding lapses.
- Maintains critical disaster assistance programs, including individual and public assistance.
- Safeguards life and property by ensuring uninterrupted emergency services.
- Provides stability and predictability in disaster response efforts.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to increased government spending if not managed responsibly.
- Could create a precedent for circumventing the normal appropriations process.
- Potential for misuse of funds if oversight is insufficient.
- Possible strain on the Disaster Relief Fund if lapses in appropriations are frequent.
- May not address long-term solutions to funding uncertainties.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the general welfare and ensuring domestic tranquility, as stated in the Preamble. Congress's power to appropriate funds is established in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7, which requires that 'No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.' This bill seeks to manage appropriations already made, rather than circumventing the appropriations process entirely. The Anti-Deficiency Act is referenced, showing an attempt to remain within existing legal frameworks.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).