COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSAV) — As part of the governor's executive budget, Gov. Henry McMaster wants $240 million to be allocated to disaster relief.
A portion of the $240 million would create a public program to "allow local governments, public utilities, nonprofit, and charitable aid organizations to apply for disaster recovery funds," a press release said.
The program, South Carolina Public Assistance (PA), would be managed by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD).
The funds would cover future disasters for those who don't meet federal FEMA thresholds or were denied by the federal government for disasters like Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Debby and the flooding of the Edisto River.
McMaster also recommended that $50 million be sent to the Department of Transportation (DOT) for the costs of debris removal and repairs to roads and bridges after Hurricane Helene.
An additional $40 million would be used to "replenish the Disaster Relief and Resilience Reserve Fund and the Disaster Relief and Resilience Revolving Loan Fund" which were used after Hurricane Helene.
Both funds are used for state relief after disasters.