Trump to Sign Executive Order Enhancing Local Leadership in Disaster Preparedness and Response
The newly implemented regulations aimed at streamlining the federal government are expected to assist states and local communities during emergencies, as stated by the White House.
On March 10, President Donald Trump intends to sign an executive order that will empower state and local leaders to prepare for and react to natural disasters and other emergencies.
This new legislation, introduced shortly after devastating wildfires impacted parts of North Carolina, establishes a National Resilience Strategy designed to bolster preparedness and enhance the federal government’s response efforts.
To achieve the objectives outlined in the order, a comprehensive review of all infrastructure, continuity plans, and readiness and response policies will be necessary.
As detailed in a fact sheet from the White House provided to The Epoch Times, guidelines concerning the nation’s critical infrastructure—including essentials like water, energy, and transportation—will be revised to align more closely with current risk assessments.
The executive order emphasizes “resilience and action over mere information sharing,” as indicated in the fact sheet.
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State and local governments will gain the authority to lead preparation and response efforts with the support of the federal government, rather than depending on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for disaster management.
Additional amendments will encompass a thorough reform of the nation’s continuity policy, designed to protect the government during catastrophic events such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other unexpected incidents.
These new policies follow the president’s creation of the Department of Government Efficiency, an advisory body targeted at reducing costs and enhancing efficiency within the federal government, aimed at achieving “sustained readiness.”
A National Risk Register will also be established to identify risks and opportunities aimed at strengthening operations and minimizing waste.
Enhancing federal functions is expected to better assist states and local governments, as stated in the order.
“President Trump understands that Americans require prompt, effective assistance when disasters strike—no delays or excuses,” the White House noted. “Local leaders and citizens are best acquainted with their needs, not bureaucrats in Washington, D.C.”
According to the White House, this initiative signifies the president’s view that disaster preparedness and policy are crucial elements of his “America first” strategy and is a continuation of his long-standing commitment to restoring power to the people.
The agency has encountered increasing scrutiny from Republicans regarding its management of recent disasters, including hurricanes Helene and Milton, which impacted the southeastern United States in 2024.
Tom Ozimek and Jack Phillips contributed to this report.
