Huntsville Leader

Today in Washington, Rep. Dale Strong, representing Alabama's 5th District, presided over his first hearing as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology. The hearing focused on the oversight of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), examining its current functions, handling of taxpayer resources, and coordination with state and local governments during emergencies.

"In the interest of ensuring our homeland is resilient and prepared for all types of disasters, it is fitting that this Subcommittee’s first hearing is on FEMA — the nation’s primary disaster relief agency," said Chairman Strong. He highlighted FEMA's role in overseeing national preparedness grants and federal disaster assistance, coordinating relief efforts, and ensuring the nation's capacity to handle disasters.

Strong, drawing on over four decades of experience as a first responder in Alabama, emphasized his commitment to supporting first responders and emergency managers nationwide. He stated, "Recent events have overwhelmed our states and localities and challenged their ability to mobilize and help their communities. Our states and localities deserve all the help they can get in protecting people’s lives and property against deadly disasters."

The hearing included testimony from four witnesses, among them Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman.