Biden Seeks $100 Billion for Disaster Relief

President Joe Biden has requested nearly $100 billion in emergency disaster relief funding from Congress, primarily to address the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This funding includes $40 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and additional allocations for various federal agencies, aiming to expedite recovery efforts in affected communities. Biden's request also encompasses the full federal funding for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed earlier this year, resulting in six fatalities. The urgency for this funding comes as the current Congress reconvenes before a Republican majority takes over in January. The Biden administration emphasizes the need for bipartisan support in disaster relief, highlighting a history of such cooperation in the past. The proposed funding is part of broader efforts to replenish depleted disaster assistance programs and respond to multiple natural disasters across the country.