Congresswoman Ross Statement on Gov. Stein’s Request for Federal Support for Hurricane Helene Recovery

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement on Gov. Stein's request to Congress for more Hurricane Helene recovery funding for Western North Carolina and a quicker release of already-approved funds:

"Nearly a year after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of North Carolina, the federal government still has a duty to provide aid and support to the affected communities," said Congresswoman Ross. "In August, I traveled to Western North Carolina to see the recovery efforts firsthand and hear from residents, small business owners, and community leaders about what Congress can do to help. Time and time again, I heard the same thing: They need more federal support, and they need it faster.

"As Governor Stein outlined this morning, Hurricane Helene victims are receiving less federal support than similar disaster-stricken communities. They want and need federal resources to rebuild stores, schools, roads, and bridges so that Western North Carolina can grow and thrive once again.

"While a mounting backlog of desperately needed federal funds has finally been approved, bureaucratic red tape at the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Government Efficiency continues to slow down the federal relief process. I am committed to fighting for the Governor's request, and I expect the White House and the congressional leadership to ensure that the federal government lives up to its obligations to the people of Western North Carolina."

Permalink: https://ross.house.gov/2025/9/medical-laboratory-personnel-shortage-relief-act-of-2024