Still one more report before the fact

In July the GAO issued a report (GAO-05-652) entitled "DHS' Efforts to Enhance First Responders' All-Hazards Capabilities Continue to Evolve". Two interesting observations in hindsight:

• State preparedness officials and local first responders said that "DHS's emphasis for grant funding was too heavily focused on terrorism and they sought to acquire dual use equipment and training that might be used for emergency events that occur more regularly in their jurisdictions". Variations of this comment are studded throughout the report.
• "Achieving national preparedness and response goals hinges on the federal government's ability to form effective partnerships with nonfederal stakeholders. By working collectively with state and local governments, the federal government gains the resources and expertise of the people closest to the challenge."