Ossoff Criticizes Trump Administration for Denying Georgia’s Hurricane Relief Extension

Senator Jon Ossoff criticizes the Trump administration for denying Georgia’s request for an extension on hurricane relief funding post-Hurricane Helene. Despite extensive damages totaling billions, the administration’s denial limits the federal reimbursement timeline, impacting recovery efforts. Ossoff and Governor Kemp express the need for reconsideration of this decision to support ongoing cleanup efforts.

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) has expressed his discontent with the Trump administration’s decision to deny Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief following Hurricane Helene. In January, Governor Brian Kemp appealed to FEMA for a longer reimbursement period for local governments involved in recovery efforts. Despite support from both Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), the request was rejected last Wednesday by FEMA official Cameron Hamilton.

Hurricane Helene, which struck in October, resulted in severe damage across Georgia, including 34 fatalities. The storm wreaked havoc, notably affecting agriculture, with estimated losses exceeding $10 billion across several states. Georgia alone suffered losses exceeding $5.5 billion in agriculture, as highlighted by a report from the University of Georgia.

In their correspondence to President Trump, Senators Ossoff and Warnock emphasized the vital role of FEMA funding for local cleanup programs. They observed that other states, such as Florida and South Carolina, received longer extensions for their assistance programs, while Georgia’s extension was limited to only 120 days, scheduled to conclude on February 3.

FEMA’s acting administrator informed Governor Kemp that their increase in funding request for disaster assistance was deemed unwarranted. The letter stated the denial of the extension for full federal funding while noting that the decision could be appealed within 30 days, contingent on qualifying indicators.

Senator Ossoff criticized the denial, asserting that Georgia’s recovery efforts are still ongoing and urged the administration to reconsider its decision. Governor Kemp’s office indicated plans to address the financial gap left by FEMA’s reduction in funding, outlining that the proposed budget would cover the non-federal cost share for ongoing eligible expenses.

In summary, Senator Jon Ossoff has called attention to the Trump administration’s rejection of an extension for federal hurricane relief funding for Georgia. The denial has significant implications for the recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which inflicted billions in damages. While there are provisions for appeal, the situation highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Georgia’s local governments in their recovery efforts.

Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com