WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman G. K. Butterfield (NC-01) expressed disappointment that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied Governor Pat McCrory’s request to make emergency federal funds available through a major disaster declaration for North Carolina. These funds were requested to assist residents in Beaufort, Chowan, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties after they were hit by severe storms for several days in late April.
After learning of the denial, Butterfield held an emergency call with FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. Butterfield disagreed with FEMA’s denial because he saw the devastation first hand when he visited the region after the storm. State officials reported more than 500 homes sustained damage, including 60 homes that were totally destroyed.
“I am outraged that my constituents in eastern North Carolina are being denied urgently needed federal assistance,” said Butterfield. “Hundreds of people have been displaced and need help. This is a time where families whose lives have been upended by the storm need their government the most.”
Butterfield continues to work with the Governor and the Obama Administration to identify resources to provide assistance to affected families.