President Biden is pushing Congress to greenlight a $100 billion relief package aimed at helping states devastated by recent hurricanes—can they act swiftly?
At a Glance
- President Biden requests nearly $100 billion for disaster relief from Congress.
- Funds primarily designated for FEMA and the Agriculture Department.
- Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused severe damage and over 200 deaths.
- The package supports rebuilding efforts and maintaining healthcare services.
Biden’s Disaster Relief Proposal
President Biden has asked Congress for over $98 billion in packages to aid states ravaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The proposal focuses on enhancing FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund and covers provisions for the Small Business Administration’s disaster loans. The package also extends support to the Agriculture and Housing and Urban Development Departments. With extensive destruction across Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia, Biden emphasizes the critical nature of the assistance.
The funding is largely directed to FEMA, holding the largest allocation of $40 billion. Additional resources target 16 other agencies, including transportation and agriculture, to ensure infrastructure recovery and farmer support. Furthermore, a $12 billion request has been made for HUD’s Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program.
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Impact and Wider Support
Recent hurricanes claimed over 200 lives, highlighting the urgency behind federal aid. Biden’s proposal reflects this necessity by addressing other disasters, such as fires and tornadoes. Support also extends to recovery efforts in states like Alaska and Connecticut, affected by severe storms. This year marked a sharp increase in disaster declarations, with a 50% spike in activity. Deanne Criswell noted it as “a year of records.”
FEMA Administrator Criswell recognized that without intervention, a funding shortfall looms. Support includes canceling some National Flood Insurance Program debt to ease financial burdens in the wake of these hurricanes. Previous relief efforts show historical precedence, as seen with funding after past hurricanes.
Biden asks Congress for nearly $100 billion in disaster relief funding https://t.co/BpGmd1eAR2
— Eyewitness News (@WEHTWTVWlocal) November 19, 2024
Congressional Response
House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the House will evaluate Biden’s request, ensuring support for affected communities. The proposal appeals for Congress to “take immediate action” to provide a meaningful response. Johnson’s assessment could prompt swift legislative action.
The relief request underscores the administration’s priority in fortifying disaster-stricken communities. Success depends on legislative agility in supporting this pressing need for aid, setting a significant precedent for future disaster response strategies.
Sources:
Biden asks Congress for about $100 billion in disaster relief funding
Biden Asks Congress For $100 Billion In Disaster Relief Funds—After Devastation From Hurricanes
Biden Asks Congress for Nearly $100 Billion in Disaster Aid
