Congress Faces Pressure Over FEMA Funding Amid Hurricane Helene Aftermath

Despite calls for immediate action, lawmakers are not scheduled to return until mid-November, leaving FEMA to manage with existing resources.

Hurricane Helene has caused significant damage across six states, resulting in at least 160 deaths and billions in damages.
President Biden considered recalling Congress to address FEMA's funding needs but has not made a final decision.
Speaker Mike Johnson stated that FEMA has sufficient funds for now due to a recent stopgap funding bill, but acknowledged future funding needs.
Rep. Jared Moskowitz criticized Republicans for not replenishing FEMA’s disaster relief fund before the recess, highlighting a $2 billion deficit.
Lawmakers, including Rep. Moskowitz and Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, have proposed additional funding bills but await Congress's return in November.