Senator Jon Ossoff has criticized the Trump administration’s refusal to extend FEMA relief for Georgia post-Hurricane Helene. The storm caused extensive damage, with estimates of $5.5 billion in losses for Georgia’s agriculture sector. Despite appeals from state officials, FEMA denied the extension of funding, which could hinder ongoing recovery efforts.
Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Trump administration’s decision to deny the state of Georgia an extension for hurricane relief following Hurricane Helene. In January, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp had requested that FEMA prolong the period during which local authorities could receive reimbursements for cleanup expenses. Senators Ossoff and Raphael Warnock also advocated for this extension, but the recent communication from FEMA indicated the denial of this request.
Hurricane Helene struck Georgia in October, causing significant damage, including flooding and fallen trees, and tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 34 individuals. The overall financial impact on the agricultural sector, including losses to farmers and timber producers across affected states, is projected to exceed $10 billion. Specifically, Georgia farmers incurred an estimated loss of $5.5 billion due to the storm.
In their correspondence with President Trump, Senators Ossoff and Warnock highlighted the importance of FEMA funding, which has been essential for assisting recoveries in affected counties. Although neighboring states such as Florida and South Carolina received extensions of a full 180 days, Georgia’s request was only extended for 120 days, which is set to conclude soon.
Cameron Hamilton, the acting FEMA administrator, informed Governor Kemp that the request for extended funding was denied, stating that the request did not meet the warranted criteria. Hamilton provided a potential path for appeal within 30 days of the denial but reiterated that federal support moving forward would be limited.
Senator Ossoff criticized the decision, articulating that it was unfair to deny vital assistance to Georgia as local governments continue their cleanup efforts. He urged the administration to reconsider, emphasizing the severe impact of Hurricane Helene on Georgia communities. Governor Kemp’s office indicated that the state budget would adjust to cover the remaining costs after federal support was reduced from 100% to 75%.
The refusal by the Trump administration to grant Georgia an extension of hurricane relief following Hurricane Helene has drawn criticism from Senator Ossoff and state officials. The damage from the storm incurred substantial economic losses, particularly in agriculture, and the limited federal support underscores a gathering challenge for affected local governments. The state has indicated plans to compensate for the diminished federal assistance, while calls for reconsideration of funding requests persist.
Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com
