In times of rapid change, shifting priorities, and uncertainty, we are not just facing challenges-we are standing at the threshold of incredible opportunity. Our profession has always been defined by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to protect and support our communities. Now, more than ever, we have the chance to shape the future of emergency management.

If you’re wondering how you can make the greatest impact right now, know that your voice, expertise, and dedication are invaluable. In times of uncertainty, we must stand united-not dwelling on what we don’t know but amplifying what we do. Our profession is built on a foundation of knowledge, experience, and commitment to public safety. Elected officials, business leaders, and the next generation of emergency managers are looking to us for guidance, clarity, and strength.

Below, you’ll find an update from the chairs of the Government Affairs Committee and the Community and Member Engagement Committee. Both groups are actively working to develop products as we continue to advocate for our profession in these uncertain times. In addition to these updates, you’ll also find the IAEM Advocacy Mission Outline, approved by the IAEM-USA President’s Team, for your reference. Please use this information to drive the conversation forward and champion the future of emergency management in your local jurisdiction or organization. This is our moment to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact.

In the weeks ahead, we will share more information from both committees.

Together, we will rise to the challenge.

In Service,

Carrie Speranza, CEM

IAEM-USA President

Government Affairs Committee Update

The Government Affairs Committee (GAC) is actively addressing several critical issues, including the potential dismantling of FEMA and the impact of grant funding freezes on local and state agencies. The committee is focused on advocating for legislative priorities such as EMPG funding, disaster management cost modernization, and reform of individual assistance. It is also forming subcommittees to develop detailed recommendations on FEMA reform and advocacy strategies. Additionally, in coordination with the IAEM-USA president, a letter has been sent to Acting Administrator Hamilton requesting clarification on grant funding issues. 

With things changing rapidly, it is more important than ever to ensure that we share information with one another. Please keep Government Affairs aware of issues you are hearing and changes that might impact our profession.

If you’d like to receive updates from GAC directly, please update your communication preferences within your member profile. Once you log in to your Membership Dashboard, select “Update My Communications Preferences” and hit “Yes” to “IAEM-USA Government Affairs Updates.” Then, hit save.  

Community and Member Engagement Committee Update 

IAEM’s new Community & Member Engagement Committee (CMEC) is working closely with Government Affairs and IAEM leadership to ensure members have the tools and resources to advocate for our profession in a unified and impactful way. With heightened attention on FEMA’s future and the impact that it may have on states and local communities across the nation, now is the time to engage with elected officials and community leaders, educate them on the role of emergency management, and reinforce the critical connection between FEMA funding and our ability to serve communities. As the FEMA Review Council takes shape, advocating for IAEM representation will be key to ensuring that emergency managers have a seat at the table in shaping FEMA’s future.

At its core, CMEC exists to elevate and amplify the role of emergency management through strategic storytelling, digital engagement, and advocacy. We are committed to uniting voices, fostering regional advocacy, and supporting collaboration across IAEM’s membership, committees, and caucuses. 

With our first meeting today, Feb. 12, at 4:00 p.m. EST, now is the ideal time to get involved. If you want to make a difference in how emergency management is understood and valued – whether through communications, advocacy, or regional engagement – there’s a place for you in CMEC. Join the committee and help shape the conversation! Email Dawn M. Shiley, CAE to join. 

IAEM Advocacy Mission Outline   

The IAEM-USA President communicated with the White House to emphasize the importance of ensuring our voices are heard in the newly established Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This is a pivotal moment for IAEM and the entire emergency management profession. Our expertise, insights, and experiences are vital to shaping the future of FEMA and influencing policies that impact our communities nationwide. Through focused advocacy, relationship-building, and strategic engagement, we can significantly impact how emergency management is prioritized and supported at the federal level. 

Here are some things you can be doing and talking points you can leverage as you engage with community leaders.

1.     Gather Information  

• Identify where elected officials stand on emergency management-related issues.
• Monitor legislative developments, policy shifts, and emerging trends affecting emergency management.
• Maintain situational awareness through regular updates from reliable sources, briefings, and direct engagement with policymakers.    

2.      Advocate for IAEM 

• Promote IAEM as the leading voice for emergency management professionals across the nation.
• Ensure IAEM is actively involved in shaping emergency management policy at all levels of government.

Talking Points for Advocating for IAEM:   

• IAEM represents thousands of emergency management professionals dedicated to safeguarding communities across the United States.
• Our members bring real-world expertise and operational experience to inform sound public policy decisions.
• IAEM is committed to professional development, certification, and education that strengthen the emergency management workforce.
• We collaborate with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners to enhance national resilience.
• IAEM serves as a trusted resource for legislators seeking expert advice on emergency management issues.

3.      Advocate for the Emergency Management Profession 

• Elevate the role of emergency managers in public safety and community resilience.
• Highlight the critical need for sustained investment in emergency management programs and personnel. 

Talking Points for Advocating for the Emergency Management Profession:   

• Emergency managers are on the front lines of disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.
• Investing in emergency management saves lives, reduces economic losses, and strengthens community resilience.
• Emergency management is a professional discipline that requires specialized training, certification, and continuous learning.
• Strong emergency management programs are essential to national security and public health.
• Support for emergency management ensures that communities are prepared for natural disasters, public health crises, and emerging threats.

4.      Build Relationships with Elected Officials and Their Staff  

• Develop and maintain regular communication with key policymakers and their teams.
• Develop strong relationships with private-sector emergency management
• Position IAEM members as subject-matter experts and trusted advisors on emergency management issues.
• Engage in bipartisan outreach to ensure broad support for emergency management priorities.   

5.      Be the Leaders You Are 

• Lead with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to the emergency management mission.
• If your organization does not permit you to advocate in an official capacity, represent IAEM through your role on the Government Affairs Committee.
• Set the standard for advocacy, collaboration, and leadership within the emergency management community.

Together, we can strengthen IAEM’s influence, advance the emergency management profession, and build a more resilient nation.