House Republicans are asking FEMA for information on how it’s responding to the devastating August wildfires on Maui, as well as steps taken by the agency to address areas for improvement from prior disaster responses.
In a statement, Oversight Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) and Government Operations and the Federal Workforce Subcommittee Chair Pete Sessions (R-Texas) said the committee “has a responsibility to ensure FEMA is utilizing every tool at their disposal efficiently and will work to ensure FEMA delivers assistance in a seamless, swift timeframe.”
The committee’s examination of the fires, which killed at least 115 people in early August, is separate from a hearing announced Thursday by the Energy and Commerce Committee, which will feature testimony from Hawaii utility and energy officials.
The letter, signed by 15 Republicans, seeks a response from FEMA by Sept. 29. We’ve reached out to FEMA for comment and will update if we hear back.