Counties Count!

Fixing FEMA: What Counties Need from Disaster Reform

Illinois State Association of Counties

In this episode, we unpack the urgent need for FEMA reform from a county government perspective. As natural disasters grow in frequency and intensity, counties are often on the front lines—managing response, coordinating recovery, and facing bureaucratic hurdles that slow progress and strain local budgets. We explore key reforms under discussion in Washington, the gaps in FEMA’s current approach, and what counties need to better protect their communities. This conversation shines a spotlight on changes that matter to county leaders.