Bell Introduces FEMA Operations Continuity Act to Protect Disaster Relief During Government Shutdowns

Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the FEMA Operations Continuity Act of 2025 to ensure that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can continue delivering disaster relief, recovery, and mitigation assistance during a lapse in government funding.

This bill would authorize FEMA to maintain essential operations funded through the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF)—including individual and public assistance programs—so families and communities impacted by natural disasters are not left behind during a government shutdown.

“This spring, the St. Louis region was hit by devastating tornadoes, and we couldn’t have afforded to wait for assistance any longer than we did. Families rebuilding their lives after a disaster should never have to wait for Congress to get its act together before receiving life-saving help,” said Rep. Bell. “This bill guarantees that FEMA’s essential work continues uninterrupted during a government shutdown—because protecting human life and property should never be subject to drama in Washington.”

The legislation would further prohibit the diversion or withholding of DRF funds during a lapse in appropriations and explicitly classifies FEMA’s disaster response activities as essential functions under the Anti-Deficiency Act, exempting them from shutdown restrictions.

Read the bill text here.

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