President Biden is urging Congress to end its recess early and return to approve emergency funding for hurricane recovery, despite the lack of a supplemental request from his budget office. In a rebuke to Republican candidate Donald Trump, Biden criticized misinformation about federal aid for hurricane victims, calling it irresponsible and un-American. He emphasized that FEMA assistance is not limited to a $750 payment and that additional aid would be provided.
The devastating effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton have caused over 230 deaths, with Florida being particularly hard hit. Trump released a video addressing Florida residents, promising help if he is elected president. However, FEMA has clarified that no funding is being diverted from disaster response efforts for noncitizens.
Biden highlighted the urgent need for emergency funding for the Small Business Administration to provide assistance to natural disaster survivors. While FEMA is adequately funded with $20 billion in its disaster relief fund, the SBA requires immediate financial support from Congress. As Congress remains in recess until November 12th, lawmakers are being urged to return early to approve the necessary funding. However, the White House budget office has not yet released a supplemental spending request, causing delays in the approval process.
Overall, Biden stressed the importance of immediate action to support hurricane recovery efforts and prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation during natural disaster response. The public awaits a swift response from Congress to provide much-needed aid to those affected by the recent hurricanes.
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