SE North Carolina News

Senator Ted Budd has expressed his support for government funding legislation aimed at providing disaster relief to Western North Carolina. This move follows the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which struck the region earlier this year.

Senator Budd stated, "At long last, the people of Western North Carolina will begin to receive the disaster aid they so desperately need and deserve. It is going to take years to fully recover after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the resilient citizens of the western mountains as they undertake the difficult job of rebuilding. They will never be forgotten as long as I have anything to say about it."

In response to Hurricane Helene, Senator Budd has been actively involved in efforts to secure aid and support for affected communities. He received operational briefings from various agencies, including FEMA and North Carolina Emergency Management, shortly after the hurricane's impact.

On September 30, 2024, he toured storm-damaged areas with Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler and participated in a recovery effort review. Additionally, on October 1, 2024, he joined a letter addressed to Senate leaders highlighting the urgent need for an appropriations package.

Further actions included urging HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to operationalize resources at the Greensboro Influx Care Facility on October 8, 2024. Senators Budd and others also announced plans on October 29, 2024, to introduce legislation replenishing funds for SBA's Disaster Loan Program.

In November, Senator Budd collaborated with fellow lawmakers in requesting supplemental appropriations from President Biden's administration. He also demanded answers from FEMA regarding alleged biased assistance practices during Hurricane Milton responses.

Budd's legislative initiatives include introducing bills like the Disaster Assistance Fairness Act and FinCEN Act designed to aid homeowners and businesses struggling post-hurricanes. These measures aim at facilitating debris removal reimbursement under federal law and supporting business operations amid ongoing challenges.

Senator Budd remains firm in his commitment that he would not back any government funding resolution without guaranteed disaster aid for Western North Carolina.