Overview

• FEMA has rejected North Carolina's appeal for 100% federal funding for debris removal following Hurricane Helene, offering 90% instead.
• Governor Josh Stein warns the decision will cost North Carolina taxpayers up to $2 billion, impacting recovery efforts and other critical infrastructure projects.
• Hurricane Helene caused over $60 billion in damages, making it one of the deadliest U.S. storms since Katrina, with western North Carolina particularly devastated.
• Stein pointed to past full federal funding for disasters like Hurricanes Ike, Maria, and Katrina, contrasting with FEMA's current partial funding offer.
• Misinformation during the Biden administration and delays under Trump have hindered disaster aid access, with fewer than 15% of eligible households applying for assistance.