House Speaker Mike Johnson did not commit to calling Congress back into session before the election after President Joe Biden requested more funding for federal disaster recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Biden’s letter to congressional leaders emphasized the need to restore funding to the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan program and address potential shortfalls. Johnson stated that Congress would reconvene immediately after the election, as it takes time to assess damages and determine specific needs following natural disasters.
Before Hurricane Helene struck, Congress allocated $20 billion to FEMA for immediate needs, and Johnson assured that Congress would provide necessary support for disaster-prone areas in due time with bipartisan backing. Biden indicated that he might seek a supplemental funding request from Congress for areas affected by Hurricane Helene, potentially requiring a special session.
Johnson addressed false claims from some Republicans that FEMA was prioritizing funding for migrants over disaster response, clarifying that the streams of funding are separate. He accused the Biden administration of using taxpayer dollars to assist migrants with resettlement, which he pledged to address if Republicans gain control after the elections.
While Biden administration officials noted Congress has acted swiftly on disaster relief funding during recess, Johnson did not confirm if Congress would reconvene for a supplemental request. The White House denied claims that FEMA was using funds on migrants instead of disaster response. Johnson emphasized FEMA’s mission to assist those affected by natural disasters and not provide funding for migrants who entered the country illegally.
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