SE North Carolina News

U.S. Senator Ted Budd has introduced two legislative bills aimed at reducing government regulation and providing relief to North Carolinians affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The proposed Disaster Assistance Fairness Act seeks to aid homeowners in North Carolina by clarifying that debris removal from private roads is eligible for reimbursement under the Stafford Act. Congressman David Rouzer has introduced a companion bill, H.R. 3777, which includes bipartisan support.

The second piece of legislation, the Flexible Compliance for Emergencies and Natural Disasters (FinCEN) Act, is designed to assist businesses facing operational challenges due to the hurricanes.

Senator Budd stated: “The scope of the devastation in Western North Carolina is unlike anything I have ever seen before. Folks from the mountains are resilient and tough, but they need their government to work quickly for them in their time of need. These two pieces of legislation will cut through red tape and get needed aid out the door. I will continue to work with my colleagues to get Congress to pass robust assistance that meets the moment.”

Dawn Bauman, Chief Strategy Officer at Community Associations Institute, expressed support for Senator Budd's efforts: “Community associations are vital to the fabric of our communities, and ensuring they have access to federal disaster relief is critical. CAI applauds Senator Budd for his leadership in introducing the Senate companion to H.R. 3777."

The Disaster Assistance Fairness Act mandates FEMA involvement in debris removal when it poses a threat as determined by state or local governments and provides financial assistance for essential repairs.

The FinCEN Act offers deadline extensions for Beneficial Ownership Information reports required by businesses affected by disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton until January 1, 2026.