Governor Josh Stein has issued a statement in response to FEMA’s decision to end direct federal assistance for the US Army Corps of Engineers. The governor expressed gratitude for the efforts made by FEMA and the Army Corps in clearing debris across western North Carolina. He noted their commitment to stay in the state until current missions are completed.
“I want to thank FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers for its hard work to clear debris all over western North Carolina. I am pleased that they will stay in North Carolina to finish existing missions, and my team looks forward to working closely with them to get those jobs done quickly,” Stein stated. He highlighted that over 12 million cubic yards of debris have been removed from roads and waterways, but acknowledged there is still much work ahead.
The state’s debris removal program is ready to handle the remaining tasks, aiming for swift completion. “Unfortunately, there remains vast amounts of work yet to be done. Our state’s debris removal program is prepared to contract and execute the remaining debris removal and will work diligently and with urgency to complete those jobs as soon as possible,” he added.
Governor Stein also urged President Trump to support North Carolina’s appeal for full FEMA reimbursement, emphasizing its importance for recovery efforts. “We continue to ask President Trump to respond favorably to the state’s appeal for 100% FEMA reimbursement. This is a critical part of the state’s successful recovery,” he said. Without this support, taxpayers in North Carolina might bear significant costs associated with debris removal.
