Mississippi River mayors want FEMA reform to include wetlands to fight floods

Mayors call for better disaster mitigation programs, announce tool that will compile information on drought, flooding and river levels

Mayors along the Mississippi River are pushing for changes in how the federal government prevents and responds to disasters.

As national politicians look at ways to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, a coalition of mayors are hoping to inform the process while also finding ways to tackle problems themselves.

“Emergency response is not becoming something that is needed less,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “Emergencies and crises, they are indeed happening more often. And so we all need to be prepared.”

Congress is currently drafting legislation that seeks to streamline the process for receiving aid while also asking states to invest in mitigation and private insurance policies. It also would elevate FEMA to a cabinet-level agency. At the same time, a council created by President Donald Trump is reviewing the agency and recommending changes...

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Mississippi River mayors want FEMA reform to include wetlands to fight floods