Federal and state officials are still primarily focused on rescue efforts in Texas after this week’s devastating floods, but don’t be surprised if the damage requires a congressional response in the coming months.
It may take a few weeks to quantify the toll — and to determine whether the disaster relief fund will cover it or if a supplemental bill is needed. If more cash from Congress is required, lawmakers may look to hitch it to a must-pass spending bill.
“Anything we can do to help. The supplemental tended to North Carolina last year, so certainly would be open to that,” Sen. Ted Budd, R-N.C., told reporters on Monday. “Let’s get through the immediate stage right now and take care of lives, save as many lives as possible, assess the damage — and then come with a more accurate question of what’s actually needed.”