In a recent government meeting, lawmakers discussed the Extreme Weather and Heat Response Modernization Act (HR 9024), aimed at enhancing the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) response to extreme heat events. The bill, introduced by Representatives Dina Titus and Greg Stanton, seeks to address the rising public health crisis associated with extreme heat, which has claimed more lives annually than hurricanes and tornadoes combined.

During the meeting, Titus highlighted alarming statistics, noting that nearly 130 million Americans faced extreme heat threats over the Fourth of July weekend, with her district in Southern Nevada recording temperatures as high as 120 degrees. She reported a significant increase in heat-related deaths, with 2,297 fatalities nationwide in 2023, including 294 in Southern Nevada—a 78% rise from the previous year. The bill proposes to empower FEMA to better manage these heat crises by establishing an advisory panel to refine how the agency defines disaster incident periods and to expand eligibility for mitigation funding to include resources for cooling centers and equipment.

Stanton echoed the urgency of the legislation, emphasizing that extreme heat is a long-term disaster that requires federal recognition and resources. He pointed out that local governments are already overwhelmed, and without federal support, vulnerable populations, including seniors and those without air conditioning, are at increased risk.

While the bill received support from several members, some expressed concerns about FEMA's capacity to handle additional responsibilities, citing inefficiencies and bureaucratic challenges within the agency. Critics argued that instead of expanding FEMA's role, efforts should focus on empowering state and local governments to manage their own disaster responses.

Despite the opposition, the committee moved forward with the bill, adopting an amendment in the nature of a substitute and postponing further proceedings for a recorded vote. The discussions underscored the growing recognition of extreme heat as a critical public health issue that necessitates a coordinated federal response.