FEMA denies NC’s request for extended Helene relief funding

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has rejected North Carolina’s request to maintain a full 100% federal match for the state’s continued Hurricane Helene recovery expenses. 

In a letter sent Friday to Governor Josh Stein, acting FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton stated that the agency had concluded the full cost share was “not warranted.” 

In late September of last year, the Biden administration authorized FEMA to fully reimburse North Carolina for disaster recovery expenses, including debris cleanup and other efforts for a period of 180 days. 

Hurricane Helene, which tore through the southeastern United States last year, left a massive trail of destruction in its wake, particularly across western North Carolina. According to a December report from the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM), the storm caused an estimated $60 billion in damage across the state, making it one of the costliest natural disasters in North Carolina’s history. 

Governor Stein responded with frustration to FEMA’s decision, emphasizing the ongoing and urgent needs of the affected communities. 

“The need in western North Carolina remains immense — people need debris removed, homes rebuilt, and roads restored,” said Stein. “I am extremely disappointed and urge the President to reconsider FEMA’s bad decision, even for 90 days. Six months later, the people of western North Carolina are working hard to get back on their feet; they need FEMA to help them get the job done.” 

US Rep. Chuck Edwards, R, NC-11, whose district includes many of the hardest-hit areas, called the extension ‘unprecedented’ and noted he is continuing to help residents of Western North Carolina. 

“A 100% cost share extension for 180 days is unprecedented. Instead, I’m focusing on other ways I can make a tangible difference in helping the citizens of Western North Carolina recover more quickly,” Edwards told the Carolina Journal. “This includes continuing to assist survivors with FEMA casework and working with the administration to find additional avenues to alleviate the financial stress our communities and the state of North Carolina are facing.” 

The state has 30 days to appeal the FEMA decision. 

The post FEMA denies NC’s request for extended Helene relief funding first appeared on Carolina Journal.