Chapter Chapter 6
Section Fostering Transformation
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FOSTERING TRANSFORMATION
Our continuing transformation is not a choice but an absolute necessity. We must begin a national dialogue on shared responsibilities and expectations for preparedness. As highlighted throughout this report, the American concept of federalism requires that any transformation must involve and accommodate all levels of government and communities across the Nation.
The objectives of this dialogue must be first to establish reasonable expectations of what government can and cannot do in response to catastrophes. Our citizens need to know what to expect from their government, in order to make sure they do everything possible at their level to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Second, this dialogue must develop a shared understanding of the need for active Federal management of the National Preparedness System, to include:
w Setting metrics for State, local, community, and individual preparedness;
w Developing and implementing a system to assess that preparedness as well as to establish clear responsibilities and accountability; and
w Identifying the circumstances under which the Federal government will push capabilities independent of request.
Finally, this dialogue must result in a shared understanding of roles and responsibilities in preparedness for catastrophic events, to include those of:
w The Federal government;
w State governments;
w Local governments;
w The private sector (including non-governmental organizations and faith-based organizations); and
w Communities and individual citizens.
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