FEMA Continues to Block Information Requests
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is back at the non-information game. This time, they’ve refused a FOIA request for information on a survey conducted of people who had their homes inspected in the aftermath of four 2004 Florida hurricanes. FEMA outsourced the hiring and supervision of inspectors who make recommendations on whether claims should be accepted. At least 14 people have been indicted for fraud in one Florida County. FEMA refused the survey information request of the Fort Myers News Press, saying the data was for confidential internal decision making purposes. Earlier, the agency refused information on those who received relief grants and on the names of inspectors, claiming release would violate their privacy rights. (11/28/05)