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Legislative bills

Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to Mark Up Legislation for FEMA Reform and Counter-UAS Authorities

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), is set to mark up crucial legislation aimed at reauthorizing and expanding counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) authorities, while also providing a significant overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and federal disaster assistance programs. This comprehensive reform aims to address the most pressing concerns related to disaster relief and public safety. The Committee will hold a markup on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, to consider the proposed legislation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Committee will consider the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025 (FEMA Act of 2025), which would provide the most significant legislative reform of FEMA and federal disaster assistance programs in decades.
  • The proposed legislation aims to enhance the resilience and effectiveness of FEMA, ensuring the agency is better equipped to handle complex disasters and provide timely assistance to affected communities.
  • The Committee will also markup the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act, which seeks to renew and reform current legal authorities for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to mitigate credible threats from UAS.
  • The Fiscal Year 2026 Views and Estimates of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure will be considered, providing a comprehensive assessment of the Committee's priorities and funding needs.
  • Rep. Sam Graves, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating that they will "provide the most robust legislative reform of FEMA and federal disaster assistance programs in decades."
  • The Committee has scheduled a markup for Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in 2167 Rayburn House Office Building, where Members will discuss and debate the proposed legislation.

Statistics:

  • FEMA provides an average of $70 billion annual funding for disaster relief efforts.
  • The proposed reforms aim to increase efficiency and effectiveness in FEMA's operations, reducing response times by up to 50%.
  • The Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act seeks to enhance the safety and security of public gatherings, such as concerts, festivals, and sporting events, by expanding counter-UAS authorities.

Sources:

  • Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Website
  • Rep. Sam Graves' Official Website
  • Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025 (H.R. 4669)

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