Senator Ossoff Criticizes Trump Administration’s Rejection of Hurricane Relief Extension for Georgia

Senator Jon Ossoff criticized the Trump administration’s denial of Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief following Hurricane Helene. The storm caused extensive damage, leading to agriculture losses in the billions. The denial of assistance funding hampers recovery efforts in affected local communities. Ossoff and Warnock have called for a reversal of this decision.

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) has expressed dissent regarding the Trump administration’s recent decision to deny the state of Georgia’s request for an extension of hurricane relief. This request, made by Governor Brian Kemp in January, aimed to prolong the period during which Georgia local governments could seek reimbursement for Hurricane Helene cleanup expenses. Both Senator Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) supported this request, which was ultimately denied by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Hurricane Helene caused significant devastation in October, leading to flooding and widespread damage across the region. Tragically, the storm resulted in at least 34 fatalities in Georgia. Economic assessments indicate the total losses for agribusinesses from Florida to Virginia could exceed $10 billion, with Georgia alone experiencing storm-related losses estimated at $5.5 billion. This unparalleled impact severely affected farmers, timber growers, and associated industries in the area.

In a letter to President Trump, Senators Ossoff and Warnock emphasized the importance of FEMA funding in aiding affected Georgia communities. While neighboring states like Florida and South Carolina received 180-day extensions for their disaster relief programs, Georgia’s extension only allowed 120 days, concluding on February 3.

FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton communicated the agency’s decision to deny Georgia’s aid extension. He cited that the increased funding level requested for disaster assistance was not necessitated and stated, “it has been determined that the increased level of funding you have requested for major disaster FEMA-4830-DR is not warranted.”

Senator Ossoff remarked that the decision was unjust, urging for a reversal to secure essential support for local governments engaged in recovery efforts. A spokesperson from Governor Kemp’s office indicated that the proposed state budget would cover the non-federal share of the eligible expenses remaining after the denial, ensuring continued assistance for recovery efforts.

In summary, Senator Jon Ossoff has voiced significant concerns over the Trump administration’s refusal to extend hurricane relief for Georgia following Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic impact. The decision has financial implications for the state, particularly affecting local governments in their ongoing recovery efforts.

Original Source: www.fox5atlanta.com