SE North Carolina News

Senators from North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia are urging Senate leadership to prioritize a vote on disaster aid in early December. The bipartisan group, including Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Tim Kaine (D-VA), has sent a letter advocating for a "robust supplemental appropriations bill."

The senators emphasize the need for quick action following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The Biden Administration's request for $98 billion in supplemental disaster appropriations was highlighted as a critical step towards providing necessary assistance. The Office of Management and Budget's proposal aims to address the needs of communities impacted by these natural disasters.

"We urge you to bring a robust supplemental appropriations bill to the floor the first week of December," states the letter, emphasizing that "disaster relief cannot wait any longer." This follows a recent hearing held by the Senate Committee on Appropriations with federal agencies to review disaster funding requirements.

In their appeal, the senators acknowledge efforts made by private businesses, non-profits, local citizens, and government partners in response to the hurricanes. They stress that Congress must now provide essential resources for full recovery.

Hurricane Helene is estimated to have caused $250 billion in damages across the Southeastern United States, while Hurricane Milton added another $50 billion. Tragically, around 261 lives were lost due to these events. Some areas continue to face challenges; Asheville, North Carolina only recently regained consistent access to potable water on November 18th, and significant damage remains on Interstate 40.

"Our constituents need immediate help as they work to rebuild their homes and communities," asserts the letter. The senators express readiness "to pass a supplemental disaster relief bill" promptly in December.