Biden Seeks $100 Billion for Infrastructure Aid

President Biden has submitted a request for nearly $100 billion in emergency disaster aid, which includes funding for the reconstruction of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed due to a container ship incident in March. He pledged that the federal government would cover the entire reconstruction cost, estimated at nearly $2 billion, and is seeking 100% federal funding for the project. In a letter to Congress, Biden emphasized the need to bolster funding for FEMA and other disaster relief programs, which are currently running low. Maryland's congressional delegation is advocating for this funding, noting the urgency as disaster programs face depletion. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted the importance of this funding, stating that the current disaster relief fund has only $119.6 million left. The Maryland delegation is optimistic about bipartisan support for the request, especially given their history of aiding other states during disasters.