WASHINGTON — A group of FEMA employees has released a declaration and petition to Congress , raising concerns that recent changes within the agency could hinder its ability to respond to disasters, and support state and local partners.

The document, titled the “ Katrina Declaration and Petition to Congress ,” was issued on Aug. 25, just days before the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. It outlines six areas of opposition, including staffing reductions, program cuts and delays in mission assignments, which employees say could weaken disaster preparedness and response nationwide.

The letter, published by Stand Up for Science, a nonprofit organization formed in early 2025 following federal cuts to research funding and scientific programs, states the employees hope the warnings

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