Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin rescinded a rule on Wednesday that mandated his personal approval for all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expenditures exceeding $100,000.

Policy Reversal Addresses Relief Bottlenecks

The previous policy, implemented last June by former Secretary Kristi Noem, drew criticism for creating delays in disaster response and recovery funding. Lawmakers and state officials argued the rule placed a significant burden on agencies like FEMA, which routinely handles contracts and reimbursements exceeding the $100,000 threshold.

Impact on FEMA Operations

Critics stated the rule undermined FEMA’s ability to effectively prepare for and respond to natural and manmade disasters across the United States. Josh Morton, president of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM-USA), described the situation as “an untenable situation for emergency managers.”

A recent report from Democratic members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee revealed that the approval rule had delayed at least 1,000 FEMA contracts, grants, or disaster reimbursements as of September. Approximately $2.2 billion in recovery and mitigation dollars were awaiting DHS approval on Wednesday, according to FEMA data.

Secretary Mullin Prioritizes Efficiency

A DHS spokesperson stated that Secretary Mullin “re-evaluated the contract processes to make sure DHS is serving the American taxpayer efficiently.” Mullin also expressed his commitment to adequately staffing the agency, which experienced a loss of over 2,400 employees last year, and to nominating a permanent FEMA administrator.

Shutdown Complicates Immediate Impact

While the rescission of the rule is expected to streamline the contracting process, the full impact will likely not be felt until after the current DHS shutdown ends – now in its 46th day. FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund is also facing dwindling resources, with approximately $3.6 billion remaining.

Michael Coen, FEMA chief of staff during the Obama and Biden administrations, expressed hope that this decision represents “a step toward transparency and stability between FEMA and states.”