What is the purpose of the National Emergency Management Association's surveys?

The purpose of the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) surveys is indeed to monitor the configuration of emergency management services at the state level. These surveys are essential for understanding how emergency management systems are structured, the resources they have, and how they function during crises. By collecting and analyzing data on various aspects of emergency management—such as planning, response, and recovery practices—NEMA helps states improve their operations and identify best practices that can be shared across jurisdictions.

Monitoring state-level services allows for tailored recommendations and support, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of emergency management across the nation. This focus on state-level configurations does not aim to impose federal oversight or create a national enterprise but rather to understand and improve the existing frameworks that states utilize to respond to disasters and emergencies.