American Rivers Applauds Congress Passing Disaster Relief in Government Funding Bill
Contact: Hawk Hammer, National Communications and Media Director, Hhammer@americanrivers.org
Washington D.C., – American Rivers applauds the inclusion of $110 billion for disaster relief and recovery in the 118th Congress’ final government funding bill. Signed by President Biden, the investment will help communities impacted by river flooding during hurricanes Helene and Milton and other extreme weather events across the country, while keeping the government funded until March.
“We are pleased that this funding was passed with the support of both parties and that help is now on its way to river communities working hard to find their footing in the aftermath of horrific flooding. This critical investment will help revitalize local economies across the Southeast, help rebuild infrastructure and restabilize rivers now filled with trash and storm debris,” said Peter Raabe, Southeast Regional Director for American Rivers.
With dedicated leadership by Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC), Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) the disaster relief also includes funding for public land restoration, provides aid to impacted farmers, and makes targeted investments flood control and dam safety programs.
At least 36 high hazard dams failed or were damaged from Hurricane Helene. High hazard dams are dams that in the event of failure would likely cause high value property damage or loss of life.
Other key provisions in the disaster relief bill include:
- Replenishing FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund at $29B;
- Funding critical water infrastructure via EPA’s SRFs and Army Corps Environmental Infrastructure Programs, $3.1B and $1.5B respectively; and
- Directs additional resources to USDA, Forest Service, USFWS, and NPS to support farmers and rural communities rebuild and repair important habitat.
Earlier this year, American Rivers and a group of 131 local, state and national partners have submitted a letter to Congressional leaders asking them to urgently pass emergency disaster relief funding for communities.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org