State Senate president criticizes FEMA response as legislative session nears end

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – With less than three weeks remaining in this year’s legislative session, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers says lawmakers are working through several key issues before the deadline. One major topic of discussion: the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and its impact on Kentuckians.

Stivers expressed frustration with FEMA’s response to past disasters, emphasizing the agency’s lack of understanding regarding the trauma experienced by residents.

“FEMA was not responsive in the past and understanding the trauma that people go through … they should be very empathetic and sympathetic to the individuals who are experiencing this and they were not,” Stivers said.

Currently, 11 counties in Kentucky affected by recent flooding are eligible for FEMA aid. State leaders continue to assess the agency’s role in recovery efforts as flood victims seek assistance.