Governor DeSantis’ Freedom First Budget Strengthens Florida’s Commitment to Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Recovery for All Communities
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his Freedom First Budget, demonstrating a continued commitment to emergency preparedness and assisting communities recovering from recent disasters.
"Governor DeSantis understands the importance of investing in disaster mitigation and recovery," said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie. “Through his budget recommendations, the Governor is reaffirming his commitment to these efforts by empowering the Division with the necessary resources to support Floridians before, during, and after a disaster.”
In the last year, the Division responded to COVID-19, Piney Point, the Surfside building collapse, the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season, severe weather, and flooding events. While responding, the Division also continued to distribute more than $1 billion in critical relief funding to communities recovering from recent disasters and manage more than $1.6 billion in disaster mitigation programs. The types of hazards our state faces grows every year and Governor DeSantis is ensuring our state is prepared to respond quickly.
Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida will continue to be a leader in emergency management by prioritizing disaster recovery, building response capabilities, and developing resilient communities.
Funding for the Division in Governor DeSantis’ budget proposal includes:
- Open Federally-Declared Disasters – Funding to Communities/State Operations
- $664 million in federal and state funding so communities and the state can respond to major disasters or emergencies, continue long-term recovery efforts and implement mitigation projects that will strengthen communities against the impacts of future disasters.
- $22 million to continue Florida’s response efforts for the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Warehouse Operations – Expediting Relief
- $75 million in state funding to establish three additional warehouses throughout the state to ensure the efficient deployment of state resources during emergencies.
- Urban Search and Rescue Teams
- $10 million in state funding to support the sustainment and training of Florida’s eight Urban Search and Rescue teams.
- Increasing Staff Capacity and Sustainability
$4.4 million and 41 positions to enhance the Division’s readiness to respond to their increasing demands and responsibilities.
Updated: Thursday, December 9, 2021
