Senator Ossoff Challenges Trump Administration’s Denial of Georgia’s Hurricane Relief Extension

Senator Jon Ossoff criticized the Trump administration for denying Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief funding following Hurricane Helene. Despite calls for added support from state leaders, FEMA’s acting administrator confirmed that the request was denied. The storm caused devastating financial losses, particularly in agriculture, prompting concerns about the adequacy of federal disaster aid.

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) expressed his dissatisfaction with the Trump administration’s recent decision to deny an extension for hurricane relief for Georgia. Governor Brian Kemp previously requested that FEMA prolong the reimbursement period for local governments managing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Senator Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock also advocated for this extension, only to be informed last Wednesday that the request was denied by FEMA’s acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton.

Hurricane Helene caused significant devastation across the South in October, resulting in flooding and substantial property damage that claimed at least 34 lives in Georgia. The financial repercussions are staggering, with estimates indicating over $10 billion in losses for agribusinesses from Florida to Virginia. In Georgia alone, farm losses have surpassed $5.5 billion, as reported by the University of Georgia, while North Carolina estimates $3.1 billion in damages from crop losses and recovery expenses.

In a joint letter to President Trump, Senators Ossoff and Warnock underscored the importance of FEMA’s Debris Coverage Program in facilitating recovery efforts for affected communities. They highlighted discrepancies in assistance duration compared to other states, noting that while Florida and South Carolina enjoyed a 180-day extension, Georgia was limited to just 120 days, which culminated on February 3.

FEMA’s denial letter outlined that increased funding for disaster assistance was not justified and that requests for extending federal support would not be met. Furthermore, the letter indicated that the decision could be appealed within 30 days. This ruling impacts Georgia’s recovery funding significantly, as local governments were relying on federal assistance to restore their communities.

In response to the denial, Senator Ossoff articulated, “This decision is wrong, and I urge the Trump administration to reverse course and ensure Georgia’s local governments get the vital support they need.” Governor Kemp’s office stated that his proposed budget includes provisions to cover the 25% cost share for expenses incurred post the period for 100% federal reimbursement, ensuring necessary funding remains available for ongoing recovery efforts.

The denial of the extension for hurricane relief assistance by the Trump administration has raised significant concerns among Georgia’s leadership. Both Senator Ossoff and Governor Kemp are seeking ways to support local governments still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s impact. The decision’s ramifications on federal funding and local aid underscore the need for robust disaster response measures to assist affected regions adequately.

Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com