House Democrats Urge Aid for Hurricanes Helene, Milton

Over 60 House Democrats, led by Rep. Marcy Kaptur, have urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to reconvene Congress to pass additional disaster aid funding following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. They argue the current $20 billion in FEMA funds from a recent stopgap spending bill is insufficient for the scale of destruction and recovery required. Hurricane Helene has already caused over 200 deaths and damages potentially reaching $47.5 billion, with Hurricane Milton intensifying as it approaches Florida. Though Democrats are pushing for immediate action, Johnson has stated that current resources are adequate for immediate needs and additional time is needed to assess financial requirements. The push for additional aid underscores concerns that the active storm season may deplete emergency budgets before Congress returns. Despite bipartisan calls for action, no Republicans have signed the letter, and leadership has not indicated plans to end the congressional recess early.