Fiscal Decentralization and Implications on Disaster Risk Reduction – Shreveport, Louisiana, Case Study

This study investigates how the distribution of fiscal responsibilities between federal, state, and local governments affects the city’s capacity to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to disaster risks. Drawing on analysis of nine key documents (including the master plan, City’s consolidated plans, emergency operations plan, capital improvement plans, Caddo Parish HMP, climate resilience and adaptation strategies and CAPER report, and flood hazard awareness brochures), seven key informant interviews, and budgetary data, the results found that while Shreveport benefits from formal fiscal transfers and federal hazard mitigation funding, the rigidity of earmarked funds and limited discretionary budgeting capacity at the local level often constrain proactive DRR investments.