Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted to pass a continuing resolution to keep the federal government open until March 14, 2025. This package includes $100 billion in critical disaster relief funding for the Southeast, including North Carolina. Congresswoman Ross has been pushing for this funding since Western North Carolina was devastated by Hurricane Helene.

Click here to download Congresswoman Ross’ floor speech from November calling for disaster relief funding

“It’s shameful that House Republicans pushed us to the brink of a government shutdown and played politics with desperately needed disaster aid,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This legislation is far from perfect, and many crucial, bipartisan provisions that I support were removed from the final bill. However, Western North Carolina has been waiting for federal assistance to rebuild after the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, and this package will deliver the aid that families, small businesses, childcare centers, seniors, and so many more need. The road to recovery will be long, but this package is a crucial first step. I urge my Senate colleagues to pass this legislation immediately – Western North Carolina cannot afford to wait.”

This package also includes $399 million for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Hurricane Hunter aircraft, which will cover the cost for two aircraft. Congresswoman Ross recently led a bipartisan push for funding for these next-generation Hurricane Hunter aircraft, which are vital to tracking and monitoring hurricanes.