Funding Restored: Last Minute Bill Prevents
Shutdown and Boosts Sba Disaster Loans
Finally, President Joe Biden has signed a last minute funding bill into law, preventing a government shutdown and allocating $2 billion to replenish the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program. This move is aimed at aiding recovery efforts for hurricane victims, especially those impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis strongly criticized the initial 1,500+ page continuing resolution (CR) omnibus bill, stating:
“Congress is attempting to deflect criticism of the grotesque CR by hiding behind disaster relief funding, a small fraction of this massive spending bill. This is an insult to Americans’ intelligence. Since 2022, Florida has invested over $3.4 billion in Florida’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund and raised nearly $100 million into the Florida Disaster Fund, which is used for disasters that affect our state. Over the same time frame, while Florida has weathered several catastrophic hurricanes, we have still paid down $3.6 billion in tax-supported debt. Florida proves that fiscal sanity is a choice. With this CR, Congress has chosen the opposite path—to continue wasting your tax dollars, exacerbating inflation, and driving our nation deeper into debt. They shouldn’t hide behind disaster relief; they’re willingly making these poor choices.”
In response to widespread criticism, the bloated 1,500-page bill was ultimately voted down and replaced by a more streamlined 116-page version, which focused on addressing urgent priorities.
Keeping the Government Running
The bill extends federal funding until March 14, 2025, ensuring that government agencies can continue operating. This is essential not only for day-to-day governance but also for disaster recovery initiatives.
Reviving SBA Loans
A key component of the bill is the much-needed funding for the SBA’s disaster loan program:
- Immediate Relief: The SBA has resumed processing thousands of loans that were previously approved but stalled due to funding shortages.
- Prolonged Waiting Period: Victims of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, spanning from Florida to North Carolina, have endured months of delays, with many left homeless and unable to start rebuilding their lives.
Republican Response
While Republicans are relieved to see aid finally reaching disaster-stricken communities, many are voicing frustration:
- Domestic vs. Foreign Aid: GOP leaders have criticized the slow response to domestic disasters compared to the swift allocation of aid to foreign countries.
- Calls for Reform: Republican lawmakers are pushing for changes to ensure disaster aid reaches Americans faster in the future.
Struggles in Disaster Zones
The delays in loan disbursement have had severe consequences for communities:
- Families are stuck in temporary housing with no clear timeline for rebuilding.
- Local economies are suffering as businesses remain closed, unable to recover without financial assistance.
Moving Forward
While the funding boost is a positive step, it highlights deeper issues in disaster response and aid allocation. Republicans are advocating for a more efficient system that prioritizes the needs of American citizens.
The SBA disaster loan replenishment is a welcome relief for communities rebuilding after Hurricanes Milton and Helene. However, the challenges faced during the delay have sparked a broader debate about prioritizing domestic aid over foreign assistance. As recovery efforts continue, the push for reform will likely grow louder.
– F.W
America First
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