Press Release: Governor Stein Urges FEMA for Extended Federal Assistance in Hurricane Recovery
RALEIGH, NC – Earlier this month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) turned down North Carolina’s request for a full 100% federal match to support ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. In response, Governor Josh Stein sent a letter to President Donald Trump, urging an extension of the cost-sharing for at least three months.
Governor Stein emphasized that delays from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers resulted in the state receiving effective debris removal support for only three of the intended six months under the original reimbursement plan. He noted a significant improvement in debris removal rates, with the Corps nearly tripling its efforts recently compared to the previous six-month period.
The financial burden on the state is substantial, with $1.6 billion already allocated for recovery. Preliminary estimates indicate that an additional $1-2 billion may be necessary to complete debris removal efforts. Stein warned that without federal reimbursement extension, the state would face escalating costs amidst waning revenues from a tourism-dependent economy.
Citing precedents from the aftermaths of Hurricanes Katrina, Maria, and Ike, Stein argued that denying the extension would exacerbate the economic struggles in areas recently affected by multiple disasters, including Tropical Storm Debby.
While acknowledging the federal disaster relief funds allocated under the American Relief Act of 2025, Stein pointed out that minimal funds have reached North Carolina, leaving state and local governments to manage the burdens of recovery alongside ongoing infrastructure challenges and budget shortfalls.
Stein called upon President Trump to honor his commitment to North Carolina by supporting a six-month extension for full federal cost share, or at the very least, an additional three months to bolster recovery efforts and demonstrate federal support for the communities striving to rebuild.
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