Congress passed a stopgap funding bill to avoid a government shutdown but excluded billions in disaster relief funding, even as Hurricane Helene bore down on the Southeast.
Andres Picon reports for E&E News.
In short:
- Congress passed a funding extension but left out disaster aid, including FEMA’s depleted relief fund, despite bipartisan support for the funding.
- Lawmakers from disaster-prone areas expressed frustration, citing the urgent need for federal assistance, especially as natural disasters increase.
- FEMA’s disaster relief fund is in significant deficit, facing a $3 billion shortfall by February 2025 without additional funding.
Key quote:
Federal disaster programs “have no money in the bank, essentially, to help people in supporting these long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.”
— Andy Winkler, Bipartisan Policy Center
Why this matters:
With increasing natural disasters, FEMA and other federal programs need funds to respond quickly. Delays in funding can extend recovery times for communities, leaving them vulnerable during future emergencies.
Related: Disaster by choice: The need to create a culture of warning and safety
