Number: RL33064
Title: Organization and Mission of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate: Issues and Options for the 109th Congress
Authors: Keith Bea, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: This report provides background information on matters relevant to the proposal to eliminate EPR, shift the remaining preparedness functions to a new directorate, and refocus FEMA's mission solely to consequence management. Because the 2SR initiative makes no mention of the effect of the proposal on FEMA's hazard mitigation efforts, this report suggests that this is an issue that Congress might elect to investigate. This report provides information on the authorities and missions of EPR and reviews actions taken since the establishment of DHS to modify the directorate's functions. In addition, the report examines the homeland security and emergency management authorities that Congress has assigned to federal entities other than DHS. It presents as comprehensive a picture as possible of relevant authorities and administrative issues. The report concludes with options that Congress might elect to consider as it evaluates the merits of Secretary Chertoff's 2SR proposal.
Pages: 64
Date: September 7, 2005