Florida Attorney General Sues FEMA Over Hurricane Aid Discrimination and Flood Insurance Reforms

Tallahassee, FL – Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has filed two significant lawsuits against the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), raising concerns over alleged discriminatory practices in disaster relief and steep increases in flood insurance premiums.

The first lawsuit, filed on November 14, 2024, accuses FEMA of directing its employees to bypass homes displaying political signs in support of President-elect Donald Trump during post-hurricane aid distribution. This incident allegedly occurred after Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused widespread damage in Lake Placid, Florida. The complaint claims that this directive violates the civil rights of affected residents, leading to an unequal distribution of emergency relief. FEMA has acknowledged the incident, resulting in the dismissal of the involved employee, and is conducting an internal investigation.

The second legal action stems from a coalition of states, including Florida, challenging FEMA's "Risk Rating 2.0: Equity in Action" policy for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Implemented in April 2022, this new system recalculates flood insurance premiums based on updated risk assessments, causing significant cost increases for many policyholders. Florida argues that the changes disproportionately burden its residents and claims FEMA failed to consider crucial mitigation factors, making the overhaul unfair and unsustainable.

Both lawsuits reflect Florida’s efforts to advocate for equitable treatment of its residents in the wake of natural disasters and amid changing federal policies. The outcomes could significantly impact disaster relief protocols and flood insurance practices nationwide.