Trump authorities reject North Carolina's plea for Hurricane Helene aid, on the same scale as the aid Biden approved earlier.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declined North Carolina's request for full funding match for Hurricane Helene debris cleanup costs, according to a letter from acting FEMA administrator David Richardson to the state's governor.
Richardson stated that after evaluating the situation, no extension of the 100% federal cost-share for debris removal and emergency protective measures was deemed necessary. This decision came in response to the Biden administration's directive to match 100% of state funds for disaster cleanup after Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that left over 230 casualties in its wake, primarily in Buncombe County, North Carolina, in September 2024.
Traditionally, the federal government absorbed 75% of disaster recovery costs, while states paid for the remaining 25%. However, the Biden administration's policy change has shifted toward increased state responsibility. In this case, the federal government would cover 100% of the costs, but only for an initial 180-day period.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein expressed concern over the decision, saying it would divert funds intended for supporting small businesses, rebuilding infrastructure, repairing water and sewer systems, and addressing other critical needs.
The funding debate comes as the Department of Homeland Security evaluates ways to eliminate FEMA while providing states with disaster funding. The consolidation plan proposed by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem aims to cut or eliminate the agency, with Trump indicating his intention to do so, citing the agency's failure to carry out its mission effectively.
Meanwhile, the forthcoming 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to exhibit above-average activity, with between 13 and 19 named storms expected. This development raises concerns about the readiness of FEMA, as an internal review this month indicated that the agency is not fully prepared for the hurricane season, citing staffing limitations, hiring challenges, and a lack of coordination with states as major concerns.
This decision marks the second instance of FEMA aid requested denial, following the agency's rejection of Arkansas' request for disaster relief after severe storms and tornadoes hit the state in March.
- Despite the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has refused North Carolina's plea for full funding match in the debris cleanup costs.
- David Richardson, acting FEMA administrator, justified the decision by stating that no extension of the 100% federal cost-share was necessary amid the review.
- The Biden administration had previously directed FEMA to match 100% of state funds for disaster cleanup after Hurricane Helene.
- This Category 4 storm left over 230 casualties in its path, primarily in Buncombe County, North Carolina, in September 2024.
- Normally, the federal government covers 75% of disaster recovery costs, while states shoulder 25%.
- However, the Biden administration's policy shift has promoted increased state responsibility, with the federal government assuming full costs for an initial 180-day period.
- North Carolina Governor Josh Stein voiced his concern, fearing this decision would divert funds meant for small businesses, infrastructure, and other critical needs.
- The Department of Homeland Security is evaluating ways to eliminate FEMA while providing states with disaster funding.
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's consolidation plan aims to cut or eliminate the agency, a move previously supported by former President Trump.
- The forthcoming 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is projected to exhibit above-average activity, with between 13 and 19 named storms expected.
- This development has raised concerns about FEMA's readiness, as an internal review recently revealed that the agency is underprepared for the hurricane season.
- Staffing limitations, hiring challenges, and a lack of coordination with states were identified as major concerns in the internal review.
- The decision to deny FEMA aid to North Carolina marks the second instance this year, following the agency's rejection of Arkansas' request for disaster relief.
- Speaking of sports, the WNBA, MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA Basketball, and Golf seasons are in full swing, with fans engaging in sports betting and sports analysis.
- Additionally, the Masters, Grand Prix, horse racing, mixed martial arts, tennis, and auto racing have provided fans with a diverse array of entertainment options, amid weather forecasting and unusual weather patterns.
