Day 17: Understanding the Powers of Congress

Understanding the Powers of Congress

A concise overview of the powers held by the United States Congress and their significance in the legislative process.

Multiple Choice

Do Now: Which of the following powers does Congress have?

• Levy taxes

• Issue driver's licenses

• Establish national parks

• Declare war

Understanding Congress' Powers

• Congress has the power to borrow money, regulate commerce, coin money, establish post offices, declare war, and raise armies and maintain a navy.
• Congress can also make laws necessary for carrying out these powers.

Power of Congress

Trivia: Did you know that one of the powers of Congress is to declare war? This power is granted by the Constitution and gives Congress the authority to initiate military action. Other powers of Congress include levying taxes, establishing national parks, and more. Congress plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's policies and decisions.

Understanding Disaster Recovery

• Federal Government Matters: Washington is essential in providing timely and predictable resources in the aftermath of a disaster.

• Addressing Disasters at Scale: The federal government sets rules for disaster assistance and provides flexible tools for states and localities.

• All Recovery is Local: States and localities prioritize the deployment of resources in rebuilding their communities.

• Complexity of Post-Disaster Recovery: There are over 50 federal programs, creating challenges for state and local leaders.

Multiple Choice

Which level of government sets rules for disaster assistance and provides flexible tools for states and localities?

• Federal government

• State government

• Local government

• Municipal government

State Government

Trivia: State governments are responsible for setting rules for disaster assistance and providing flexible tools for states and localities. They play a crucial role in coordinating disaster response and recovery efforts. State governments work closely with federal and local governments to ensure effective disaster management.

Understanding Congress' Powers

Congressional programs should adapt to local circumstances, not the other way around. Local leaders struggle to navigate complex federal programs, hindering their response to emergencies. FEMA's pilot program aims to streamline assistance and provide financial incentives for timely completion of projects.

Multiple Choice

What is the aim of FEMA's pilot program?

• To hinder local leaders' response to emergencies

• To provide financial incentives for timely completion of projects

• To make federal programs more complex

• To adapt local circumstances to congressional programs

Understanding FEMA's Role in Hurricane Sandy Recovery

FEMA, in collaboration with New York State and New York City, has signed 78 Hurricane Sandy Public Assistance Recovery Agreements. These agreements represent an estimated $9.9 billion, with an anticipated $8.9 billion in federal share funding. FEMA has already obligated $5.7 billion of its federal share. The recovery efforts include projects for New York City and New York City Housing Authority developments, with a significant focus on mitigation measures to enhance future disaster resilience.

Multiple Choice

What organization has signed Hurricane Sandy Public Assistance Recovery Agreements?

• FEMA

• New York State

• New York City

• New York City Housing Authority

FEMA and Hurricane Sandy

FEMA has signed Hurricane Sandy Public Assistance Recovery Agreements. These agreements provide financial assistance to organizations affected by the hurricane. The agreements help in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of affected areas, including New York State and New York City. The New York City Housing Authority is also involved in the recovery process.