Biden Requests $100B for Disaster Relief Package

President Joe Biden has called on Congress to approve an emergency funding package of nearly $100 billion to address the aftermath of recent natural disasters, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The funding would primarily support the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with $40 billion for disaster relief, helping with debris removal, infrastructure repair, and financial assistance for survivors. Additional funds are earmarked for farmers, community grants, highway and bridge repairs, and small business loans, with 16 agencies set to benefit. The Biden administration emphasizes the urgency due to depleted resources following a surge in disasters, highlighting the need for swift bipartisan action. Lawmakers face pressure to pass the relief package before the end of the year, amidst Republican calls for federal spending cuts. This request follows previous unmet funding needs for disasters like wildfires in Hawaii and flooding in Vermont.