ASHEVILLE – As November’s cold weather approaches, the U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to take on the pressing issue of disaster relief for those affected by Hurricane Helen. The storm left a huge mark on western North Carolina, but local leaders are stepping up to ensure the needs of their communities are met.
New fund for recovery
On October 9, 2024, the North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024, creating a new Hurricane Helen Fund. The fund is funded by the state’s Savings Reserve Fund and allocates $273 million for recovery assistance. Sen. Chuck Edwards emphasized the importance of this funding, saying, “We know FEMA’s response is not what you expected…Western North Carolina is on its own path to recovery. I’m drawing it.”
The bulk of the funding, $250 million, will go to the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Management Division. This allocation serves as a match for the state’s federal disaster relief funds and ensures local agencies have access to the resources they need. In addition, a portion of the funds will establish a revolving loan program aimed at assisting local and state agencies with cash flow while awaiting federal reimbursement.
Support for schools and local governments
The bill also recognizes the hurricane’s impact on education. A total of $16 million will be allocated to the Department of Public Instruction to compensate school nutrition workers who lost wages due to school closures due to the storm. Additionally, $2 million will be allocated for technical assistance to local governments in administering recovery funds.
$5 million will be donated to the State Board of Elections in an effort to encourage voting after disasters. The money will support temporary changes to election laws, such as adjusting polling places that were out of service due to the storm and establishing a voter hotline. These measures are intended to ensure that residents of Western North Carolina can exercise their right to vote without unnecessary obstacles.
Flexibility and streamlined processes for schools
The Disaster Recovery Act also provides flexibility in public school schedules. Schools can now make up days and hours missed due to the hurricane or mark them as completed. In addition, you will be allowed up to 30 days of remote instruction to match the number of instructional days you need. This flexibility is critical to maintaining continuity of education during a crisis.
To further ease the burden on residents, this bill waives DMV fees for obtaining duplicate driver’s licenses and ID cards. It will also ease certain environmental requirements for repairs to state highways, ensuring that necessary infrastructure work can proceed without compromising safety or environmental standards.
Combating misinformation and promoting unity
Sen. Edwards has been vocal about the challenges Western North Carolina faces in recovering from Hurricane Helen. He noted that the region’s unique geography complicates recovery efforts compared to other areas affected by similar storms. “Our mountains have hills and valleys, which makes recovery 10 times more difficult,” he said.
In his communication, Edwards also addressed conspiracy theories circulating in the community regarding FEMA’s response. He called on residents to focus on constructive efforts rather than spreading misinformation that could hinder recovery efforts. “This useless and unnecessary use of time only hurts our neighbors, friends, and families,” he said.
Community engagement through the Carolina Cruiser
To further assist constituents in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen, Sen. Edwards has resumed mobile office hours on the Carolina Cruiser. This initiative allows residents to share their thoughts on pressing issues and seek assistance from federal agencies. “In keeping with my office’s motto of ‘The Constitution First,’ I want to make sure everyone has access to the help they need,” he said.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Edwards website for up-to-date information on Carolina Cruiser hours and locations. As recovery efforts continue, it is essential to stay informed and engaged in the rebuilding of Western North Carolina.
As November approaches and Congress prepares to tackle disaster relief, it’s clear that local leaders are determined to work with their constituents to navigate this difficult road. With comprehensive planning and a focus on community unity, Western North Carolina is poised to recover from Hurricane Helen and emerge stronger than before.