0:40The Federal Emergency Management Agency headquarters is pictured in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 2025.Gene J. Puskar/AP
Thirty-six FEMA staff members who endorsed a letter to Congress criticizing the Trump administration’s decisions within the agency have been temporarily suspended, as indicated by an email shared by “Stand Up for Science,” the organization that released the letter earlier this week.
The letter, spanning two pages, stated the employees were suspended without a specified return date.
“Stand Up for Science” noted that those suspended include personnel actively engaged in disaster response operations in Kerr County, Texas.
“While the situation unfolds, this step highlights the concerns raised in their statement and their courage in advocating for vulnerable Americans,” the group remarked. “Once more, we witness federal retaliation against civil servants for exposing wrongdoing—an unlawful act and a disservice to those who serve diligently. DHS has dismissed these employees as ‘resistant to change,’ a demeaning claim for FEMA workers who adapt swiftly to crises. ‘Stand Up for Science’ is honored to support their Katrina Declaration and stands with the FEMA 36.”
Earlier this week, several FEMA employees alerted Congress that operational shifts and leadership under the Trump administration could compromise national emergency readiness.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency headquarters is pictured in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 2025.Gene J. Puskar/AP
“Since January 2025, FEMA has been led by appointees without the necessary legal credentials, Senate confirmation, or the proven expertise expected of its Administrator,” approximately 180 employees stated in their congressional letter.
Following Hurricane Katrina in August 2005—which claimed nearly 1,300 lives and caused extensive destruction in New Orleans—Congress enacted the Post Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 to enhance federal disaster response coordination.
FEMA employees argued the agency’s current direction is “clearly diverging from the law’s intended purpose.”
DHS did not comment on ABC News’ inquiry regarding the suspensions but earlier referenced its handling of recent flooding in New Mexico and Texas as evidence of successful reforms.
“For years, FEMA’s effectiveness was hindered by excessive bureaucracy, inefficiencies, and outdated procedures that delayed aid to those in need. The Trump administration has prioritized reforms to ensure taxpayer funds directly benefit affected individuals and communities,” they asserted.
“It’s unsurprising that officials who tolerated past inefficiencies oppose modernization. Change is challenging, particularly for those benefiting from the old system. Our duty is to disaster survivors, not to maintaining flawed processes,” a spokesperson added.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
