More than $900 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants and loans are awaiting Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s approval under her controversial policy of personally reviewing major expenditures, an agency source revealed to The Hill. This backlog at the emergency management agency is a cause for concern as it delays the much-needed funding that helps communities prepare for and recover from disasters.

FEMA plays a crucial role in providing financial assistance to communities in times of crisis. The agency’s grants and loans are a lifeline for those affected by natural disasters, helping them rebuild their homes, businesses, and lives. However, the backlog in approvals has been a growing concern for many, and it is time for a swift resolution.

Secretary Noem’s policy of personally reviewing major expenditures was implemented earlier this year. While her intention may have been to ensure proper use of funds, it has led to a significant delay in approving grants and loans. As a result, communities that are struggling to recover from disasters are left waiting for much-needed aid.

According to the agency source, the backlog includes a mix of grants and loans for various disaster relief programs, including those for flood mitigation, emergency preparedness, and post-disaster recovery. These funds are critical for communities to protect themselves from future disasters and to rebuild and recover from previous ones.

The delay in approvals is also a huge burden for those on the front lines of disaster response. Local emergency management agencies are already stretched thin, dealing with the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The delay in funding only adds to their workload and hampers their ability to provide timely assistance to those in need.

Furthermore, the backlog has a domino effect on other agencies and organizations involved in disaster relief efforts. Non-profits, volunteer organizations, and state and local governments rely on FEMA’s timely approval of grants and loans to carry out their work effectively. The delay in funding not only affects communities but also puts a strain on the resources and manpower of these organizations.

It is essential to understand that natural disasters do not wait for approvals. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires can strike at any time, leaving behind a trail of destruction. The longer the delay in funding, the longer it takes for communities to get back on their feet. This not only affects the physical recovery but also takes a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of those affected.

We need to recognize the urgency of this situation and work towards a solution. Secretary Noem has a responsibility to ensure that FEMA’s policies and procedures do not hinder the agency’s ability to fulfill its mission of helping those affected by disasters. It is crucial for her to review her policy and find a balance between accountability and timely assistance.

In a statement to The Hill, FEMA defended the delay in approvals, stating that they are ensuring that the funding goes to the most critical needs and is used effectively. While accountability is important, it should not come at the cost of delaying much-needed aid. The agency must find a way to streamline the approval process without compromising on accountability.

In the meantime, communities affected by disasters continue to wait for the necessary funding to rebuild and recover. It is a race against time, and every delay counts. We cannot afford to let bureaucracy get in the way of helping those in need.

It is time for Secretary Noem to act and address the backlog at FEMA. We urge her to prioritize the approval of grants and loans to ensure timely and effective assistance to disaster-stricken communities. We also call upon Congress to provide the necessary support and resources to expedite the approval process and reduce the backlog.

In times of crisis, we must come together and support each other. The $900 million backlog at FEMA is not just a number; it represents the lives and livelihoods of those affected by disasters. We cannot let them suffer any longer. Let us work towards a solution and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.