Blog Details

What’s Changing with CISA and FEMA?

The proposal includes a $163 billion cut to non-defense discretionary spending. That’s about a 23% drop from the previous year. As part of that:

• CISA’s budget would be reduced by $491 million, or about 17% of its total. This agency helps protect everything from power grids to hospitals to election systems. The goal, according to the administration, is to refocus CISA on its core job: defending federal systems and critical infrastructure. Some programs—like ones aimed at misinformation or international partnerships—would be cut.
• FEMA would lose $646 million in grant funding, including the full removal of the BRIC (Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities) program. This program has helped communities across the country prepare for disasters like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.

At the same time, defense spending would go up 13%, and border security funding would rise by 65%, showing a shift in where the government wants to prioritize its resources.

Why This Matters to Businesses and Everyday Americans

This isn’t just about government agencies—it’s about how prepared we all are when things go wrong, whether that’s a cyberattack or a natural disaster.

For Businesses:

• Fewer Free Cybersecurity Tools – Many small and medium businesses benefit from CISA’s free resources, like threat alerts, risk assessments, and cybersecurity guidance. With less funding, those services may shrink or disappear.
• Higher Risk, Higher Costs – If federal support dries up, businesses may have to pay more out-of-pocket for private cybersecurity services. That’s especially hard for small operations that don’t have big IT budgets.
• Supply Chain Security – CISA helps protect the systems that power everything from shipping to water treatment. If that work slows down, businesses may face more disruptions, downtime, or vulnerabilities they didn’t plan for.

For Citizens:

• Disaster Readiness at Risk – FEMA’s BRIC program has helped local areas build floodwalls, strengthen schools, and improve emergency plans. Without that help, many towns—especially those in storm-prone areas—may be left to fend for themselves.
• Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities – CISA supports the cybersecurity behind things most people don’t think about—like electricity, clean water, and emergency services. We may not notice those protections until they’re gone.
• Greater Costs and Inequality – Cybercrime and disasters hit vulnerable populations the hardest. Without FEMA’s help, low-income communities may struggle to recover, and cybersecurity gaps could lead to more identity theft and fraud.

What Can We Do Instead?

Even with cuts on the table, there are other ways we can keep our systems strong and our communities safe:

1. Encourage Public-Private Partnerships

Businesses and local governments can work with CISA through existing programs like the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) to share information and pool resources. Industry groups and cybersecurity coalitions could step up to offer free tools and training for smaller organizations.

2. Boost State and Local Preparedness

States can build up their own emergency funds or create resilience programs tailored to local risks. Some states, like California and Florida, already do this well and could serve as models for others. Local governments can also explore new ways to fund disaster prep, such as bonds or special tax districts.

3. Cut Waste Without Cutting Essentials

Instead of sweeping cuts, CISA and FEMA could review internal programs and make smart reductions. For example, merging similar roles or cutting outdated programs could save money without sacrificing key services.

4. Use Technology to Do More with Less

AI and automation can help detect cyber threats faster or predict which areas are most likely to need disaster aid. Investing in the right technology could make both agencies more efficient, even with smaller budgets.

A Few More Things to Consider

• Congress Still Has to Approve It – The budget is a proposal, not a done deal. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have raised concerns. If this issue matters to you, now is the time to reach out to your representatives.
• Impact on Jobs – Reports suggest up to 1,300 positions could be cut at CISA. That means losing experienced professionals just as cybersecurity threats are increasing. If your business needs IT help, this could be an opportunity to hire talent that may now be looking for private-sector work.
• Local Voices Matter – Communities can organize, speak up, and apply pressure at the state and federal level. Whether you’re a business owner or a concerned citizen, your voice can make a difference in how these cuts are handled—or reversed.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Security a Priority

There’s no doubt that cutting spending is a big part of the 2026 proposal. And it’s fair to look for ways to streamline government. But cybersecurity and disaster readiness are not optional—they’re foundational to a strong economy and a safe society.

Even if federal support changes, there are still smart, proactive steps businesses and communities can take. Let’s stay informed, stay prepared, and work together to build resilience from the ground up.

Have thoughts or questions?
We’d love to hear how your business or community handles cybersecurity or disaster prep. Drop a comment or reach out to us at Cynxt—we’re always here to help.

At Cynxt, we specialize in delivering IT solutions that ensure peace of mind. Contact us today or call (256) 456-5858 to schedule an appointment. Located at the Shoals Business Incubator in Florence, AL, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a smooth and secure digital operation.