The president and the first lady to survey devastation, meet with survivors
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are set to visit the Hawaiian island of Maui on Aug. 21 to survey the devastation caused by the fires that have claimed more than 100 lives and ravaged the historic resort town of Lahaina.
The fires, which have been described as the deadliest the United States has seen in more than a century, have raised questions about accountability and disaster response measures.
While the Biden administration has promised billions to help Hawaii rebuild, it hasn’t yet committed to a federal investigation into the causes of the disaster, despite growing calls for answers and accountability.
A small number of lawmakers from both parties have previously proposed creating an independent government body to investigate the underlying causes of disasters and recommend responses.
Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.), who authored a proposal aimed at establishing a “National Disaster Safety Board,” has expressed concerns about the lack of comprehensive reviews following disasters.
Ms. Porter told Politico that the Maui fires serve as “a tragic reminder” of the need for “the strongest possible leadership to review natural disasters.”
She asserted that a lack of such oversight “can dilute accountability and make it harder to take action” in the face of such events.
Ms. Porter’s bill was approved by the House in July 2022 but hasn’t advanced in the Senate. Sens. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) have been leading the effort in the Senate. The legislation is expected to gain momentum this fall.
Climate Change?
Michael Shellenberger, an independent journalist and environmental activist, disputes the prevailing narrative that blames the fires primarily on climate change. He said on social media that underinvestment in fire prevention and decision-making influenced by renewable energy initiatives played significant roles in the tragedy.
She asserted that a lack of such oversight “can dilute accountability and make it harder to take action” in the face of such events.
Ms. Porter’s bill was approved by the House in July 2022 but hasn’t advanced in the Senate. Sens. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) have been leading the effort in the Senate. The legislation is expected to gain momentum this fall.
