Other criticisms of the Stafford Act focus on human rights issues that are present during emergencies and recovery efforts. The Stafford Act does not require that the federal government ensure displaced persons have the ability to participate in governmental decisions that affect the recovery efforts.[9] This includes not only access to public forums about recovery planning and management, but the Stafford Act also does not address voting rights or civic participation issues for those who are displaced during a disaster.[9]
Many people argue that while the Stafford Act allows the government to step in and provide housing and medical assistance, it does not require it to do so. Any housing, education, or healthcare provided during an emergency and the recovery efforts are provided at the sole discretion of the federal government.[9] Even the rebuilding of medical facilities is discretionary.[9]
While the Stafford Act does give special detail and instruction about the needs of the disabled and animals during an emergency, it does not specify any requirements for children or the elderly. These groups should be given more consideration during an emergency due to extenuating circumstances that could prevent them from following the same emergency protocol as an average adult.[3]
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