As Congress nears agreement on emergency hurricane spending, the Federal Emergency Management Agency warned lawmakers it is “getting close” to depleting its aid, federal officials said Thursday.
On the heels of Hurricane Harvey striking Texas, in what could be the most expensive disaster in history, Hurricane Irma is bearing down on Florida. Emergency aid is moving faster than in past disasters because of the scope of Harvey and because electronic payments allow for faster disbursement.
President Trump proposed a first installment of $7.9 billion in emergency aid, which the House approved Wednesday. The Senate voted Thursday to approve $15.25 billion in hurricane aid, a figure that must be reconciled with the House. Congress is expected to reach a compromise before FEMA’s funding is drained.
Department of Homeland Security officials have conveyed to lawmakers that the money is urgently needed, according to spokesman David Lapan. “We’re getting close and there needs to be action,” he said.