Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, Marco Rubio, John Cornyn, and Rick Scott have introduced a bill to allocate $20 billion to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). This funding aims to support recovery efforts in states affected by Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton. The DRF is designed to assist individuals, households, states, and non-federal government entities following natural disasters.

Dr. Cassidy emphasized the need for resources to aid those impacted by the hurricanes: “Americans help Americans. FEMA needs resources to help those impacted by Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Francine.”

Senator Rubio highlighted the significance of the DRF during this challenging hurricane season: “Unfortunately, this is a hurricane season no one will soon forget. The Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is the front line for states... While assessments of the full extent of these storms are underway, the DRF cannot be allowed to be depleted.”

Senator Cornyn expressed concern over FEMA's dwindling funds: “It is alarming that FEMA has spent almost half of its disaster fund... Congress must take action to ensure critical agencies have sufficient resources.”

Senator Scott shared his experiences on the ground in Florida and stressed the importance of federal support: “What’s clear is that Florida families and businesses need their federal government to show up where they are... This bill... will ensure that the agency has what it needs... I continue to urge Majority Leader Schumer to bring back the Senate to fully fund other disaster relief functions at the SBA and USDA block grants.”

The senators call for swift passage of this legislation as communities assess their needs from various federal agencies.