South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has announced a request for $19 billion in federal funding to aid recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene's devastation in western North Carolina. The announcement was made after the Governor's meeting with Senators Tillis and Budd, emphasizing the need for significant investments in the region's recovery.

"Hurricane Helene destroyed so much across western North Carolina – lives, homes, businesses, farms, and infrastructure -- and our state is facing nearly $60 billion in damages," stated Governor Stein. He highlighted that despite initial responses from various sectors, more assistance is essential to fully restore and rebuild the affected areas.

The requested funds aim to support home rebuilding, restore critical infrastructure, keep businesses operational, strengthen local governments, and mitigate future natural disaster impacts. Governor Stein noted that the state has already allocated over $1 billion towards these efforts and is collaborating with the legislature to secure additional resources.

"With continued commitment of the federal and state governments," Stein said, "we will enable the people of western North Carolina to come back stronger than ever before."

Further details on the budget request are available through official channels.