The Biden administration’s request for nearly $100 billion in natural disaster response and recovery funding is gaining bipartisan support in the U.S. Senate. Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee expressed concerns about the current state of disaster response systems and emphasized the need for better preparedness as natural disasters become more frequent and severe.
The hearing focused on the impact of hurricanes, tornadoes, mudslides, and wildfires on communities across the country. Senators highlighted the devastation experienced by farmers and rural communities, particularly in states like Georgia and North Carolina. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the need to address climate change’s impact on natural disasters and called for sustained funding for rebuilding infrastructure and supporting affected individuals.
Lawmakers also discussed the impact of drought on farmers and the need for agricultural disaster programs to help alleviate their struggles. The hearing also touched on addressing damage to national parks and lands caused by natural disasters. Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Patty Murray suggested the committee may increase the proposed funding amount to address the extensive damage caused by recent disasters.
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