Release Date: Apr 07, 2006Contact: 888-249-NEWS


Chamber Urges New FEMA Chief to Work More Closely With the Private Sector

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Chamber Vice President for Homeland Security Andrew Howell released the following statement on the nomination of R. David Paulison as Under Secretary of Federal Emergency Management:

"If confirmed, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with Under Secretary Paulison to overhaul and modernize the Federal Emergency Management Agency. We hope the new director will make it a priority to enlist the support of the private sector in his efforts. Companies of all types and sizes play a valuable role in responding to emergencies, and Paulison would be wise to reach out and engage our members more aggressively.

"Additionally, the private sector can provide the new head of FEMA with valuable advice and constructive solutions on some of the most important management issues dogging the agency, including modernizing the organization's logistics system and updating the National Response Plan.

"As hurricane season nears, we hope the new FEMA chief will intensify the level of engagement with industry, especially logistics professionals."

www.uschamber.com

# # #

06-61