Duval Times

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have written to Deanne Criswell, Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), expressing their concerns about the projected exhaustion of the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) ahead of the hurricane season. This communication follows reports that FEMA anticipates the DRF will be depleted by August 2024, potentially necessitating an immediate needs funding designation as early as June.

The senators underscored the potential impact of this funding shortfall on disaster relief efforts in Florida and nationwide. According to FEMA's latest monthly DRF report, issued on May 7, 2024, a deficit of $1.359 billion is projected in its Major Declarations fund by August, increasing to $6.811 billion by September. The senators are urging the administration to clarify its current funding levels and plans for readiness in case of a natural disaster.

In August last year, both senators sent a similar letter to Administrator Criswell and spearheaded efforts in the Senate to fully fund FEMA’s DRF at levels requested by FEMA and the White House. However, less than a year later, another shortfall is being projected, raising questions about the White House's ability to manage this program effectively.

The letter appreciates Criswell's efforts in supporting Florida families after recent hurricanes and emphasizes the importance of coordination between local, state, and federal partners for disaster response. It also raises several questions about DRF's current funding level, projected deficits, activation of immediate needs funding designation, and required funds for adequate disaster response during the 2024-25 hurricane season.

The senators stressed that Floridians expect all levels of government to work together following any natural disaster. They expressed their commitment to ensuring that FEMA and DRF have sufficient resources for potential community needs.