**Governor Criticizes FEMA's Denial of Funding Extension for Hurricane Helene Debris Removal**

North Carolina Governor John Stein has expressed strong disappointment following FEMA’s refusal to extend full federal reimbursement for debris removal costs from Hurricane Helene. Stein warned that the decision will burden North Carolina taxpayers with "potentially hundreds of millions of dollars" to complete the cleanup efforts in Western North Carolina.

"So far, we have removed more than 12 million cubic yards of debris from roads and waterways, but given the immense scale of the wreckage, we have only scratched the surface," Stein stated. Former Governor Roy Cooper had previously estimated in December that the hurricane inflicted $59.6 billion in damage and needs across the state.

Despite the extensive damage and the ongoing recovery efforts, FEMA official David Richardson, in correspondence to Stein on Thursday, provided no explanation for the denial. Richardson merely stated that after careful consideration, the extension "is not warranted" and the decision followed "a careful and thorough review of all the information available."

Stein expressed concern that diverting state funds to cover the debris removal expenses will detract from other essential areas. "The money we must now pay will mean less support towards our small businesses, rebuilding downtown infrastructure, repairing our water and sewer systems, and other critical needs," he emphasized.

In response to the funding shortfall, Stein continues to advocate for additional federal assistance. He is urging the Trump administration and Congress to allocate $19 billion to North Carolina for disaster relief, which includes $11.5 billion in new appropriations and $7.5 billion from previous allocations.

Despite FEMA's rejection, Stein remains committed to recovery efforts. "We are going to stay the course," he assured. "We will keep pushing the federal and state governments to do right by Western North Carolina." To bolster the state's recovery initiatives, the governor unveiled his second Hurricane Helene budget proposal, amounting to $891 million, aiming to spur economic recovery, fortify critical infrastructure, and assist residents in returning to their homes.