For the next several months, the various congressional committees with jurisdiction over EM's program hold hearings that involve testimony from HQ management and modify the budget as it makes its way through the legislative process. Congress calls upon EM to justify its budget and support its program. During this time, EM is called upon to respond to questions from the committees and frequently turns to the sites for assistance. During this phase of the budget process, EM has limited ability to affect budget decisions. Stakeholders can support EM and the sites in responding to inquiries as the opportunity arises.
Stakeholders can also work directly with their elected officials.