Waltz says Biden’s USDA is holding money to help hurricane victims

Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) implied that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is slow to aid victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Florida .

The two storms created floods that affected homes and farmlands, destroying crops and isolating livestock out of reach. Agriculture is Florida's second-largest industry.

"Right now, under President Biden, the USDA — the Department of Agriculture — is holding that money, is not dispersing it as fast as they should in our opinion," Waltz said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency offered households $750 each as part of the Serious Needs Assistance. FEMA refers to the amount as "an initial payment you may receive while FEMA assesses your eligibility for additional funds." However, Waltz suggested that the USDA could use a block grant to give aid for local governments to disperse.

"They need to let that money go. Get it in the hands of state locals that can get it out to our farmers," Waltz went on. "Thirty percent of the nation’s food supply comes through Florida sports in the winter. And obviously the clock is ticking."

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Former President Donald Trump used a block grant system to offer aid to Florida after Hurricane Ian in 2022. Waltz claimed it was more effective as FEMA is slow to reimburse those in need. It can take years to properly file damage assessments with the agency.

Florida is in the thick of hurricane season, which usually ends November 30. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said FEMA will not have the funds to last through the season.