In addition to direct disaster relief funding, HB10088 rescinds $15 billion in unobligated balances from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, reallocating those funds towards disaster recovery. The bill also includes provisions for $1.5 billion to be directed towards Economic Injury Disaster Loans for small businesses affected by the hurricanes. These loans will help ensure that local businesses can maintain operations during the recovery phase, fostering economic stability in the affected regions.
Summary
House Bill 10088, titled the 'Helene Recovery Support Act', focuses on providing significant disaster assistance in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The bill appropriates $12.5 billion to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for disaster relief efforts under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. This substantial funding aims to aid areas impacted by the hurricanes, enabling recovery for communities struggling due to this natural disaster.
Contention
One key point of contention surrounding HB10088 relates to its provision that terminates federal funding for the Shelter and Services Program. Critics argue that eliminating support for this program may leave vulnerable populations without necessary assistance during and after disasters. This aspect of the bill has drawn scrutiny from various stakeholders, including community organizations and advocacy groups that fear the loss of shelter services could exacerbate the struggles of those impacted by the hurricanes.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.