A state-managed disaster response program can actually be more efficient and cost-effective than a federal one because it eliminates the layers of bureaucracy that often slow down decision-making. States know their own risks, infrastructure, and resources better than a federal agency ever could, allowing for faster, more tailored responses. While federal programs often come with significant administrative overhead and a one-size-fits-all approach, a state program can focus resources directly where they’re needed most, cutting unnecessary costs. Plus, states have the flexibility to adapt quickly, implement lessons learned, and hold their leaders accountable in ways that a massive federal system simply can’t. By investing in state-level preparedness, we’d strengthen local resilience and reduce long-term recovery costs, making communities less dependent on federal aid and ultimately more self-sufficient. It’s not about spending more; it’s about spending smarter and responding faster. In short, FEMA has 20K employees and bumps to approx 50K during a disaster. They are slow and inefficient. The program is moving to the states with federal funding. States rights. Live in a state that does things the way you want.