Bill > HR2308

This bill establishes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as a standalone, cabinet-level independent agency directly reporting to the President, with a primary mission of reducing loss of life and property by leading a comprehensive emergency management system. The bill creates a new organizational structure with a presidentially-appointed Director who must have at least 5 years of executive leadership experience in both public and private sectors, and allows for up to 4 Deputy Directors. The agency will maintain 10 regional offices and will have responsibilities spanning four key areas: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery from various hazards like natural disasters and terrorism. The bill transfers all existing FEMA functions from the Department of Homeland Security, ensures continuity of government operations, and maintains an Office of the Inspector General. It also makes numerous technical amendments to existing laws to support FEMA's new independent status, including updating references, repealing certain sections of the Homeland Security Act, and providing protections for current personnel during the transition. The legislation aims to enhance FEMA's effectiveness and independence by giving it direct access to presidential leadership and a more focused organizational structure for managing national emergencies.

Business and Industry, Military Affairs and Security, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2308/all-info