Hurricane Katrina created a national controversy about the role of state and federal governments regarding the preparation for and response to natural disasters. In terms of federalism, the storm and its consequences brought many issues into the national spotlight. For example, what should the roles of both state and local governments be for disaster preparedness? Is it fair to use federal dollars to prepare and assist those who live in hurricane, earthquake, or tornado-prone areas, or should such funding come from state and local governments?

Question

Hurricane Katrina created a national controversy about the role of state and federal governments regarding the preparation for and response to natural disasters. In terms of federalism, the storm and its consequences brought many issues into the national spotlight. For example, what should the roles of both state and local governments be for disaster preparedness?  Is it fair to use federal dollars to prepare and assist those who live in hurricane, earthquake, or tornado-prone areas, or should such funding come from state and local governments?