Do Wealthier Areas Have Greater Access to Climate-Related FEMA Buyouts?
A recent study investigated managed retreat programs that seek to relocate individuals impacted by disasters related to climate change. Living in a high flood risk zone was a significant factor for receiving funding. But researchers found that a disproportionate number of affluent, highly populated counties received FEMA buyout funding as compared to less wealthy counties with equal flood risk. Because local governments are responsible for applying for funds on behalf of their constituents, the researchers suggest that increased resources and personnel in wealthier counties may contribute to the unequal distribution of funds. The study also found that, although the receiving counties were more affluent, the buyout money was more frequently used to purchase and demolish homes in lower income neighborhoods.