FEMA's Disaster Fund Dips, Hurricane Season Looms

0:00It's April 29th. This is U.S. News Today, powered by AI bringing you what matters across the U.S., FEMA's disaster relief fund just dipped below $3 billion, triggering strict immediate needs funding limits on spending. This means they're sticking to lifesaving aid, survivor support, and staff salaries, while pausing reimbursements to states, hazard grants, and long-term recovery projects. All this hits right before the Atlantic hurricane season kicks off on June 1st. The move comes during the 11th week of a Department of Homeland Security shutdown that started February 14th. It's the second funding gap this year, sparked by fights over border security bills. House Republicans want more for immigration enforcement before signing off, and FEMA says pulling this trigger during a shutdown like this has never happened before. Payroll for about 10,000 FEMA workers, pulls $300 million to $400 million a month from the fund, keeping them paid even now. In rural hospitals waiting on disaster reimbursements are unhold, and officials warn they need

1:04cash ready for one big storm that could cost tens of. Bill Hoens. Forecasts predict a near-average season with 13-name storms, six hurricanes, and two majors, thanks to an emerging El Nino. Training for local emergency teams is cut. They've skipped key conferences, and the National Flood Insurance Program is slowed, delaying renewals, and risky spots. This needs to pass a Homeland Security funding bill, or a continuing resolution to lift these limits. But no voter lined up this week, leaving. FEMA, in a tight spot as summer storms loom.