FEMA

Fla. Attorney General Ashley Moody is suing Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell, and a former FEMA supervisor for violating Floridians' civil rights after hurricanes.

The Biden administration has approved more than $2.3 billion for those affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Studies show the system for distributing the funds deepens historical divides.

She said a large number of Hispanic and Latino people applied for assistance in Plant City, including many migrant workers. She offers tips to anyone who is seeking federal aid.

An onslaught of conspiracy theories followed Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Although many of the claims originate online, targeting FEMA has real-world consequences, including deterring storm victims from seeking federal aid and endangering the agency’s employees on the ground.

Disaster relief often becomes political because so many people are affected – and because there is a lot of media coverage surrounding hurricanes, floods and other major weather events.

The incident occurred in Hillsborough County on October 14.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is battling online rumors, misinformation, short staffing and even safety concerns in the wake of hurricanes and flooding across the southeast.

"Florida families and businesses need their federal government to show up where they are."

President Joe Biden is scheduled to survey damage Sunday during an aerial tour between Tampa and St. Pete Beach, where he will be briefed on the storm by federal, state and local officials. He'll also meet residents and first responders.

FEMA held a press conference in Punta Gorda to discuss disaster relief assistance for those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Officials emphasized the importance of registering for aid, addressed concerns about the Disaster Relief Fund, and announced an extended grace period for residents with lapsed National Flood Insurance Program policies.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says the agency tasked with helping communities recover from Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters would need Congress to provide additional funds.

Those affected by Hurricane Helene can apply for FEMA assistance to take care of critical needs.