The Local, State, Tribal, and Federal Preparedness Task Force is proud to announce that it has submitted its final report and recommendations to Congress. Perspective on Preparedness: Taking Stock Since 9/11 is available to download at http://www.fema.gov/preparednesstaskforce. Perspective on Preparedness offers an analysis of what preparedness has meant in the United States, both historically and since 9/11, and includes an in-depth analysis of post-9/11 preparedness-related activities. The Task Force focused on four themes—one cross-cutting, foundational area (strategic investments) along with the three explicit areas of emphasis in the congressional language—policy and guidance, capabilities and assessment, and grants. The heart of this report is 25 specific recommendations for creating a better defined, better integrated, more effective preparedness system. These recommendations are categorized under four overarching recommendations, aligned to the legislative requirement:

· Consider bold, innovative investments to increase the long-term cost-effectiveness and sustainability of
preparedness through cost-reducing measures;

· Transform existing advisory bodies into a “networked” preparedness policy advisory system capable of
influencing policy from initiation to implementation;

· Prioritize development and phased implementation of a national preparedness assessment framework; and

· Make targeted improvements to preparedness grant-related coordination and collaboration, business
processes, and capability assessment linkages.

The Task Force members encourage all members of the preparedness community to review the document and to discuss ways to implement the recommendations with their constituents, partners, and leadership.