#MACoCon Recap — FEMA Fallout: Facing Federal Funding Flux

At the MACo Summer Conference, county emergency managers and national experts discussed how shifts in federal disaster policy are reshaping local preparedness, response, and recovery. The session examined FEMA’s evolving priorities, the move from response to resilience, and the growing role counties must play in meeting community needs.

Maryland Delegate Mike Griffith led the conversation and moderated an informative Q&A at the FEMA Fallout: Facing Federal Funding Flux session at the MACo Summer Conference.

Panel speakers included:

  • Brett Mattson, Legislative Director for Justice and Public Safety, National Association of Counties (NACo)
  • David Bycoffe, Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Baltimore County
  • Preeti Emrick, Director, Office of Emergency Management, Anne Arundel County

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Brett Mattson set the national context, explaining the drivers behind FEMA policy changes, the shift in federal focus from disaster response to resilience, and the implications for counties. He described how these changes affect federal thresholds for aid and outlined ways counties can elevate their voices in federal policymaking.

David Bycoffe broke down the mechanics of disaster assistance, clarifying the differences between Public Assistance and Individual Assistance. He explained how federal thresholds often leave counties without support, even after significant events, and emphasized the importance of local data to bolster eligibility and advocacy.

Preeti Emrick discussed the local strategy as counties take on more responsibility in disaster management. She explained how reduced federal support requires greater local investment in capabilities and stressed the importance of leveraging state-local partnerships and mutual aid to build long-term resilience.

The session was on August 14 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.

More About MACo’s Summer Conference: