Senator Jon Ossoff critically responded to the Trump administration’s denial of Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief funds following Hurricane Helene. The devastation caused significant losses, prompting calls for federal assistance, which were ultimately rejected, leaving local governments without crucial financial support as they continue recovery efforts.
U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) has expressed strong discontent regarding the Trump administration’s refusal to grant Georgia an extension for Hurricane Helene relief funds. In January, Governor Brian Kemp formally urged FEMA to prolong the period during which local governments could receive reimbursement for costs associated with the clean-up from the hurricane. Senators Ossoff and Raphael Warnock also supported this request, seeking assistance from the federal government.
The denial was conveyed last Wednesday by Cameron Hamilton, the acting FEMA administrator, who informed Governor Kemp that their request for an extension had been rejected. Hurricane Helene, which struck in October, caused significant destruction across the state, resulting in flooding and fatalities, with at least 34 lives lost. The economic fallout for local farmers and agribusinesses is projected to exceed $10 billion across affected states.
Georgia alone suffered alarming losses estimated at $5.5 billion, as analyzed by experts from the University of Georgia. The agricultural sector, particularly in North Carolina, also faced severe devastation with figures reaching $3.1 billion in crop losses and recovery costs due to record rainfall and flooding.
In a letter addressed to President Trump, Ossoff and Warnock highlighted the importance of funding from FEMA’s Debris Coverage Program, stating it has played a vital role in aiding communities in their recovery efforts. While states such as Florida and South Carolina received a 180-day extension for similar programs, Georgia’s extension was limited to just 120 days, set to end on February 3.
In his response to Kemp, Hamilton indicated that the request for additional federal funding was deemed unwarranted. He stated that the request for a complete extension of federal funding for debris removal and emergency assistance had been denied while suggesting an option to appeal the decision within 30 days.
Senator Ossoff criticized the denial, asserting that “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.” Conversely, a spokesperson for Governor Kemp mentioned that their proposed budget would accommodate the non-federal cost share for the remaining eligible expenses after the denial was received.
In summary, U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has condemned the Trump administration’s decision to deny an extension for Hurricane Helene relief funding in Georgia. The state’s local governments, still grappling with severe damage and economic losses, will face challenges moving forward without additional aid. Ossoff and other state leaders are urging reconsideration of the administration’s stance to support recovery efforts fully.
Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com
