FEMA Halts Emergency Grants: States Must Prove Population

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has paused the release of emergency preparedness grants to states, demanding proof of population numbers. The agency believes states might be receiving inflated payments as the distribution is based on state population. Last year, the grants totaled over $300 million.

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has temporarily halted the distribution of emergency preparedness grants to states. A report by CNN cites an agency notice that requires states to provide proof of their populations.

FEMA suspects the possibility of inflated payments since the funds, known as Emergency Management Performance Grants, are allocated based on state population data. In 2022, these grants amounted to over $300 million, aiding local communities in disaster preparedness.

As of now, FEMA has not issued any public comments or responses regarding this decision. The development signals a significant pause in the funding process amidst growing scrutiny over the allocation method.

(With inputs from agencies.)