Bilirakis, Scott and Rubio Lead Bipartisan Request for FEMA Flexibility on Debris Removal

New Port Richey, FL:  In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several local governments in Florida have experienced significant hardship as they seek to respond to the diverse needs of constituents who are struggling.  Given the unique nature of the back-to-back emergencies and the sheer volume of damage, it is more important than ever for federal agencies to coordinate their response and provide as much flexibility as possible to enable an expedited full recovery process.  Debris removal and clean-up is an important part of being able to move a community forward.  Yet, unduly restrictive federal guidelines for FEMA reimbursement currently restrict local governments’ ability to augment the capacity and scope of haulers who are doing this important work.   Accordingly, U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis, along with U.S. Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, spearheaded a bipartisan request for FEMA to grant additional flexibility with respect to post-Milton debris clean-up and to formalize the verbal assurances already provided that FEMA will reimburse local governments for debris removal activities that took place between the two hurricanes in order to reduce the risk of greater loss of life and property damage.  In addition to Bilirakis, Scott and Rubio the letter was signed by twelve other Members of the House from Florida. 

“As you drive through our community, you can’t miss the piles of debris and trash that has been rotting along roadways and in driveways for weeks.  Local governments have done their best to remove the debris as quickly as they are able under current guidelines, but we need to remove those restrictions so that we can get these obstructive hazards cleaned up,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.  “I will keep pushing federal agencies to be as flexible as possible so that we can focus on rebuilding and supporting those who are suffering.   

To read the delegation letter in its entirety, click here.