Trump and Kristi Noem Dismantle FEMA, Fire 92% of NIOSH Staff, Cut NOAA Tracker Amid Lawmakers’ Safety Concerns

The Biden administration is facing criticism after President Donald Trump, along with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, advocated for dismantling the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), citing bureaucratic inefficiencies that hinder disaster response. Noem has taken decisive action against FEMA's leadership, prompting concerns about the agency's future. Concurrently, Trump has fired approximately 92% of the staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a federal agency responsible for protecting workers from occupational hazards. This move has drawn condemnation from lawmakers and safety advocates who warn that cutting programs related to firefighter health, miner safety, and personal protective equipment vetting will increase risks for workers.

Senator Chuck Schumer described the firings as dangerous and unconscionable, emphasizing NIOSH's role in preventing work-related injuries and deaths among factory workers, farmers, firefighters, and healthcare workers. Representative Greg Casar stated that the evisceration of NIOSH could lead to fatalities, accusing Trump of betraying workers who supported him. Additionally, Senator Patty Murray criticized Trump for undermining the Forest Service and efforts to prevent and recover from wildfires. Senator Dick Durbin highlighted Trump's decision to eliminate the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) natural disaster tracking program, arguing that it will impair government disaster planning and increase community losses while benefiting fossil fuel interests. Former emergency management director and Congressman Josh Moskowitz warned that dismantling FEMA would reduce efficiency and worsen disaster response outcomes. Overall, these developments have raised alarms about the potential impacts on worker safety, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection under the current administration.