NCJ Number
201823
Date Published
2003
Length
69 pages
Annotation
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) -- which is the independent Federal agency responsible for leading the Nation's efforts to prepare for, prevent, respond to, and recover from disasters -- presents its strategic plan for its efforts for fiscal years 2003 through 2008.
Abstract
The plan notes that the Nation's attention on disaster prevention and response has shifted from natural hazards to include the Nation's capability to respond to future terrorist attacks. Under Presidential Decision Directives 39 and 62, which explain Federal policy on counterterrorism, FEMA is designated as the lead agency for "consequence management." This responsibility encompasses leading the national effort to protect public health and safety, restore essential government services, and provide emergency relief to those affected by terrorist acts. FEMA is specifically responsible for ensuring that the Nation can respond effectively to any attacks that involve weapons of mass destruction (nuclear, biological chemical, or explosive material). FEMA is one component of the Department of Homeland Security. The goals of the strategic plan are to reduce loss of life and property; minimize suffering and disruption caused by disasters; prepare the Nation to address the consequences of terrorism; serve as the Nation's channel of emergency management information and expertise; create a motivating and challenging work environment for employees; and make FEMA a world-class enterprise. The themes encompassed in the plan are leadership, partnership, building capability, and the setting of standards for State and local systems of emergency management. Challenges identified in implementing the plan are the increased risk of terrorist attacks, workforce management, limited resources, fragmented information technology, and change management. Steps for evaluating the plan's implementation are also explained. Appended goals and objectives, core values, FEMA regional offices, summary of major authorities, cross-cutting partnerships with other Federal agencies, and a glossary