RI AG Neronha joins lawsuit against Trump admin for canceled disaster prevention grants

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to challenge the termination of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, which was designed to bolster disaster prevention efforts. Joined by a coalition of 20 states, Neronha argues that the cancellation of this multibillion-dollar program jeopardizes community safety amid escalating climate change threats. The BRIC program has historically provided around $4. 5 billion for nearly 2,000 projects, covering significant infrastructure costs to protect against natural disasters. In the wake of recent flooding in Texas, which resulted in over 130 fatalities, the scrutiny on FEMA and Secretary Kristi Noem has intensified due to their perceived inadequate response.

The lawsuit contends that FEMA's termination of the program violates congressional funding decisions and the Administrative Procedures Act. Neronha and his coalition point out that mitigation projects save lives, reduce injuries, and ultimately save taxpayer money. They also argue that the directive to cancel the program was issued by an improperly appointed FEMA official. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for disaster preparedness funding at the federal level.