Duval Times

Following the recent devastation caused by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have introduced legislation aimed at replenishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). The proposed bill seeks to allocate $20 billion to assist states in their recovery efforts. Senator Bill Cassidy and John Cornyn are also backing this initiative.

Senator Scott has been actively engaging with state leaders and local officials in Florida to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Milton. He met with President Joe Biden and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to discuss ongoing rescue operations and community needs. Emphasizing the necessity of federal support, Scott stated, “I’ve been on the ground in Florida surveying damage... What’s clear is that Florida families and businesses need their federal government to show up where they are and help them get back on their feet.”

Senator Rubio highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate resources for disaster response: “Unfortunately, this is a hurricane season no one will soon forget... While assessments of the full extent of these storms are underway, the DRF cannot be allowed to be depleted.”

Senator Cassidy expressed his commitment to ensuring FEMA has sufficient resources: “Americans help Americans. FEMA needs resources to help those impacted by Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Francine.” Meanwhile, Senator Cornyn noted concerns about FEMA's current funding levels: “It is alarming that FEMA has spent almost half of its disaster fund... Congress must take action.”

The senators urge swift passage of this funding measure as communities continue their recovery efforts.