FEMA to Offer $1 Billion for Disaster Resilience After Lawsuit

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced it will fund up to $1 billion in disaster-resilient infrastructure through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, after a US district court mandated its restoration. The BRIC program, initially launched during President Trump’s first term, provides grants to state, local, and tribal governments for projects like flood levees and tornado safe rooms. It was abruptly cancelled in April 2025, stalling ongoing projects, but a judge ruled this decision unlawful and set a timeline for its reinstatement.

The agency’s compliance with the court order follows the confirmation of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who replaced Kristi Noem, and the announcement by acting FEMA chief Karen S. Evans. FEMA has streamlined the application process, focusing on major infrastructure projects and shifting more responsibility to states. Experts have celebrated the news, noting the importance of mitigation funding for communities.

To date, FEMA has received over $15.6 billion in BRIC applications and funded approximately $4.6 billion. Meanwhile, President Trump is awaiting recommendations from a panel reviewing FEMA reforms, with a final report due before the start of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which is predicted to be near the long-term average of 11 to 16 tropical storms.

(Source：Insurance Journal)