Critics, including prominent figures like tech billionaire Elon Musk and Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), are alleging that the agency is obstructing the distribution of crucial aid to those affected by the disaster.
Musk, who is the CEO of SpaceX, brought attention to claims from a SpaceX engineer, asserting that FEMA has hindered the deployment of Starlink satellite internet in areas ravaged by the hurricane, specifically in Asheville, North Carolina.
According to the engineer, FEMA has reportedly imposed restrictions on the distribution of Starlink equipment and other local aid, even requiring escorts for shipments. This has led to frustrations among relief workers who are eager to provide support but feel constrained by bureaucratic hurdles.
Rep. Gaetz has echoed these concerns, stating that reports of mismanagement within FEMA are widespread across various levels of emergency management. He highlighted that numerous responders, including personnel from the Department of Defense, are reportedly left without clear deployment instructions, leading to idle status in North Carolina. (Related: FEMA, HHS claim weather discriminates against alphabet people, cite need for 'disaster equity.')
Gaetz wrote to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, asserting that FEMA's delays in pre-disaster aid have exacerbated the crisis. He claimed that funds allocated for disaster relief may have been misappropriated to assist migrants instead, a serious allegation that has raised eyebrows among constituents and government officials alike.
Mayorkas has acknowledged a funding shortfall within FEMA, revealing that approximately $1.4 billion was spent over the past two years on illegal immigrants.
FEMA also grappling with surge of misinformation
As emergency workers focus on addressing the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, they are also grappling with a surge of misinformation that could deter survivors from accepting essential disaster relief.
A notable false narrative has emerged regarding FEMA's $750 payments intended for essential supplies.
For instance, Philip Anderson, a Texas resident with a controversial history, claimed on X that this aid is essentially a loan, suggesting that failure to repay could result in property seizure. His post, which gained traction, fueled further confusion among those in dire need of assistance.
This misleading narrative has not only circulated on social media platforms like X but has also gained momentum on TikTok, where an unidentified individual claimed to be a "FEMA inspector."
In a video that garnered nearly 400,000 views, the speaker warned viewers that the $750 payment is a loan and that failure to repay it could lead to confiscation of their property. Such claims have sparked fear among disaster survivors who are already reeling from the effects of the hurricane.
FEMA has responded decisively to these allegations, clearly stating that the $750 payment is a grant, not a loan, and that the agency does not have the authority to seize property.
"Our number one goal is for survivors to get the assistance they deserve," emphasized FEMA Press Secretary Daniel Llargues. He cautioned that misinformation could prevent individuals from seeking the help they need during this critical time. The "Serious Needs Assistance" program provides a one-time payment to eligible disaster survivors to help cover essential items.
On October 5, Jaclyn Rothenberg, FEMA's public affairs and planning director, directly addressed the erroneous claims regarding the assistance payment.
"This is not true," she asserted in response to the social media posts. FEMA's website also includes a "Myth vs. Fact" section to clarify that disaster assistance grants do not require repayment.
The assistance is available to U.S. citizens and qualified noncitizens whose primary residences are in disaster-affected areas, provided they apply within a specified timeframe.
FEMA has assured that any inspections conducted to verify damage are purely for assessing eligibility for various forms of disaster relief and do not grant the agency any authority over applicants' properties.
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Watch the video below about a U.S. Army veteran revealing startling body recovery information after Hurricane Helene.
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