In an urgent call to action, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein is pushing state lawmakers to expedite financial aid for Hurricane Helene recovery to prevent further economic setbacks. Speaking in Mills River, a region heavily impacted by the storm, Stein emphasized the need to act swiftly in securing $1.07 billion, which is double the current relief allocation, before the upcoming budget cycle in July. This funding aims to address pressing needs, such as business reconstruction, housing recovery, and educational support, through immediate legislative action.
The governor's proposal, which demands no tax hikes, includes substantial amounts for grants to struggling businesses, home repair efforts, farm debris removal, infrastructure restoration, and summer school initiatives. The intent is to stimulate economic rejuvenation in western North Carolina, allowing businesses to remain functional and prevent delays in rebuilding homes that could suffer from adverse winter conditions.
Stein underscored the immediacy of the funding, warning that without it, many businesses may disappear, and crucial construction seasons may be lost. The already fragile local economies can't sustain another delay, as highlighted by Republican Damon Hall's eagerness to support bipartisan Helene-aid initiatives.
The legislature had previously allocated over $900 million towards relief but Stein argues more is needed given the scale of destruction. The hurricane, which caused over 100 fatalities and damage to 74,000 homes and vast road networks throughout the Southeast, resulted in a staggering $59.6 billion in damages and recovery costs. Federal measures already provide a projected $15 billion for rebuilding, but immediate state funds would expedite critical recovery processes.
The $150 million portion of Stein's plan for housing aims to begin immediate repair and buybacks, filling a gap until federal funds materialize. Additionally, the proposal includes $150 million for business grants of up to $75,000 each, targeted at enterprises significantly impacted economically and physically by Helene. Stein sharply criticized the notion of further indebting small businesses that are on the brink, stating, Taking on additional business debt is simply not the answer for small businesses already struggling.
Political dynamics add complexity to the funding process, with Republicans holding dominance in the legislature but lacking a veto-proof majority. Consensual approval from all political players, including GOP members who served on Stein’s bipartisan Helene advisory committee, remains critical. Lauren Horsch, a spokesperson for Senate leader Phil Berger, noted that Stein’s proposal would undergo legislative scrutiny in the coming weeks.
Amidst North Carolina's recovery efforts, neighboring Tennessee has also been proactive, with Governor Bill Lee securing a $470 million aid package for northeast districts hit by Helene. That state's aid package enhances agricultural and business recovery, covers loan interest on rebuilding costs, and provides disaster-related unemployment support.
Stein's advocacy for fast-tracked state spending underscores the urgency beneath Helene’s widespread devastation. By prioritizing immediate response funding, North Carolina aims to safeguard its communities against another wave of economic and social turmoil caused by unpredictable natural disasters.
