Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock is spearheading a bipartisan effort calling on President Biden to expedite a request to Congress for federal funding to address the immense damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This request aims to provide the necessary resources to support the recovery of affected communities across the southeastern United States.
In a letter to the White House, Senator Warnock, alongside Senators Tim Kaine, Ted Budd, Thom Tillis, Mark Warner, and fellow Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, emphasized the critical need for swift action to ensure disaster relief efforts can move forward. The letter underscored the devastation left by the hurricanes, which have overwhelmed state and local governments and will require significant federal support for recovery and rebuilding.
The Senators urged President Biden to submit a supplemental appropriations request that covers the full cost of recovery, allowing Congress to approve the funding necessary for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other agencies to assist impacted areas. Estimated damages from Hurricane Helene alone range from $34 billion to $47 billion, with Hurricane Milton expected to add to that total.
Senator Warnock has also called for Congress to return from its in-state work period to focus on passing the necessary disaster relief legislation, despite opposition from some members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
As the region continues to recover, federal support will be crucial in helping affected communities begin the long process of healing and rebuilding.
