Topic: Mass Fatalities

The hosts examine House Resolution 6566, which amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require FEMA to provide guidance for "mass fatality planning." They question the timing of the bill and why Congress is suddenly focused on preparing for large-scale deaths from terrorism or natural disasters.

An International Swine Flu Conference scheduled for August in Washington, D.C., features an agenda focused on mass fatality management and continuity of government. The event is sponsored by various pharmaceutical and technology companies, rather than independent epidemiological organizations. Sessions include discussions on the psychological issues of a pandemic and "scientific advances" in the H1N1 virus.