President Joe Biden has requested $98.6 billion in emergency disaster relief to address the fallout from recent natural disasters, especially Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread damage across North Carolina and the region. The package also addresses lingering needs from previous disasters, such as wildfires in Maui and infrastructure failures like the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
The funds aim to rebuild communities, restore infrastructure, and provide support for affected individuals and industries. Biden emphasized the urgency of congressional action to ensure impacted communities can begin recovery without delay.
The largest allocation in the proposal is $40 billion for FEMA’s disaster relief fund, which has been nearly exhausted after significant spending on recent disasters. An additional $21 billion is designated for agricultural losses, including support for farmers and ranchers affected by hurricanes and other disasters.
Other notable components include $12 billion for HUD’s housing programs and $8 billion for transportation infrastructure, such as roads and bridges damaged by catastrophic events.
The funding proposal has sparked discussions in Congress, where lawmakers must decide how to proceed with the package. The timing is critical, as a stopgap measure to avoid a government shutdown must pass by December 20.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has proposed a three-month extension, while the Biden administration has pressed for immediate approval of the relief funds. Political challenges, including debates over offsets, could complicate or delay the process.
Biden Seeks $98.6 Billion Disaster Relief Package Following Hurricane Helene and Infrastructure Failures
Key agencies and programs would benefit from the funding. The EPA would receive $4.1 billion for water system upgrades and septic improvements, while HHS is allocated $2.7 billion for healthcare and social services in disaster-hit areas.
The USDA would use $21 billion for crop and livestock losses, debris removal, and conservation projects. The Small Business Administration, out of funds since October, would receive $2.25 billion to resume issuing disaster loans.
Additional components of the proposal include $1 billion each for education and energy projects, $310 million for wastewater treatment in San Diego, and $158 million for wildland firefighter pay.
Smaller allocations target legal services for disaster survivors, economic recovery grants, and historical preservation. The administration also seeks $1.5 billion for various other disaster-related needs, including river dredging and bridge cleanup.
Lastly, the proposal addresses a pressing issue with the National Flood Insurance Program, which is on the brink of financial insolvency. Biden has requested Congress forgive the program’s $20.5 billion debt to allow it to continue paying claims without raising its borrowing cap. This reflects the administration’s broader goal of building resilience against future disasters while ensuring immediate relief for affected communities.
