DHS Seeks Volunteers From Other Agencies to Join Hurricane Relief Surge Force

Government Executive: More than 38,000 federal employees are currently working in support of response efforts to hurricanes Harvey and Irma, but the Homeland Security Department is soliciting more.

Acting DHS Secretary Elaine Duke sent a memorandum to agency leaders across government this week asking for them to make available more workers to aid in relief and recovery from the two devastating hurricanes. She made the request as part of the 2006 Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act, which created the mechanism for Surge Capacity Forces. DHS initiated the forces in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, but took on only department employees. Duke’s memo marks the first time DHS has ever asked for help from employees across government through the Surge Capacity Force program.

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