President Joe Biden has submitted a request for almost $100 billion in emergency disaster aid following the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as other natural disasters. In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Biden emphasized the urgent need for this funding, citing his firsthand interactions with affected individuals and businesses.
The proposed allocation includes approximately $40 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's main disaster relief fund, which is facing a budget shortfall this year. Biden highlighted the importance of this funding to ensure the agency can continue providing essential assistance to survivors and support recovery efforts from previous disasters.
Furthermore, the request includes $24 billion to aid farmers who have suffered crop or livestock losses, and $12 billion for community development block grants managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. An additional $8 billion is designated for the reconstruction and repair of highways and bridges across more than 40 states and territories.
To address long-term infrastructure needs, the administration is seeking $4 billion for water system upgrades aimed at mitigating future damage from natural disasters. Various other agencies would also receive emergency funds if Congress approves the request.
Congress is expected to evaluate the proposal, with a focus on delivering support to hurricane victims and affected communities. The Senate Appropriations Committee will hear from agency leaders involved in the funding request, and there is a possibility that emergency aid could be included in upcoming spending bills to ensure federal agencies can continue operating beyond the current funding deadline of December 20.
Biden drew parallels to past disaster relief efforts, such as the aid provided after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy, stressing the immediate action needed to assist communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. He called on Congress to fulfill its duty in providing the necessary resources for recovery and rebuilding.
