Senator Ossoff Criticizes Trump’s Denial of Hurricane Relief Extension for Georgia
Senator Jon Ossoff condemned the Trump administration’s denial of Georgia’s request for hurricane relief funding extension amid ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene. The storm caused significant damage and loss, and while other states received longer relief periods, Georgia’s was shortened. Ossoff and Governor Kemp emphasized the need for continued support for affected communities as they navigate recovery efforts.
United States Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) expressed his disapproval regarding the Trump administration’s recent decision to reject Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief funds. In January, Governor Brian Kemp sought assistance from FEMA to prolong the reimbursement period for local governments involved in the clean-up efforts following Hurricane Helene. Both Senators Ossoff and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) supported this request, emphasizing its importance for affected communities.
Following Hurricane Helene, which struck in October, Georgia faced significant destruction, including loss of life and extensive property damage. The storm resulted in at least 34 fatalities and substantial agricultural losses, estimated at $5.5 billion for Georgia alone according to the University of Georgia. As other states received lengthy relief extensions, Georgia’s program only received a 120-day extension, set to expire on February 3.
Cameron Hamilton, the acting FEMA administrator, informed Governor Kemp that additional funding for the disaster relief was deemed unwarranted, thereby denying the extension request. In his correspondence, Hamilton explained that the federal funding level for debris removal would not be extended to 180 days as requested. He stated that there is a potential for an appeal within 30 days of the request denial.
Senator Ossoff criticized the decision, highlighting the ongoing recovery efforts in Georgia, and implored the federal government to reconsider, stating, “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.” In response, Governor Kemp’s office confirmed that the state’s budget would cover the anticipated non-federal share of costs exacerbated by the funding denial.
In summary, Senator Jon Ossoff and Governor Brian Kemp have voiced strong objections to the Trump administration’s denial of Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief following Hurricane Helene. This denial affects funding critical for local governments in their ongoing recovery efforts. Despite the challenges, Georgia plans to address the budget shortfall through state funding, while calls for reconsideration by the federal government persist.
Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com
