The White House is asking Congress to approve nearly $100 billion to shore up federal disaster aid accounts as communities across the country reel from the impacts of major storms and wildfires.
The $98.4 billion supplemental funding request issued Monday comes weeks after hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated parts of the Southeast. Administration officials have issued urgent warnings about funding shortfalls that are already threatening recovery efforts.
Congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), have expressed their intention to pass a disaster aid package before the end of the year. Lawmakers will have to decide how and when to approve the funding before the Dec. 20 government funding deadline.
“This relief is important,” said Shalanda Young, director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, on a call with reporters. “Families, small businesses, neighborhoods and communities are counting on their government to be there for them when they need help the most.”
