At a time when communities across northeastern Pennsylvania are facing increasingly severe flooding and extreme weather, federal investment in disaster prevention is not a luxury. It is a necessity.

That’s why Congressman Rob Bresnahan’s fight to restore and protect FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program deserves recognition and support. After the program was abruptly canceled in 2025, it left towns across the country (including many in our region) without critical resources to prepare for future disasters. These funds are designed to prevent damage in the first place, strengthening infrastructure and protecting homes and businesses, as opposed to being reactive to disasters after the fact.

According to recent reporting, Congressman Bresnahan pushed back immediately against the cancellation, advocating directly to FEMA and even introducing legislation to preserve the program. His efforts helped lead to FEMA’s recent reversal and reinstatement of BRIC funding, ensuring that communities like ours are not left to shoulder these costs alone.

This is exactly the kind of leadership northeastern Pennsylvania needs. Our region knows all too well the damage flooding can cause, from the devastation of past storms to more recent high-water events that have strained local resources. Programs like BRIC exist because proactive investment saves both lives and taxpayer dollars in the long run.

Too often in Washington, common-sense initiatives get caught up in political gridlock. In this case, Congressman Bresnahan recognized what was at stake and worked across the necessary channels to deliver results for his constituents.

Regardless of party, that kind of advocacy should be applauded. Protecting our communities, strengthening our infrastructure, and preparing for the future should never be partisan issues.

Peter V. Quaglia
Tyler Hill, PA