Rubio, Bilirakis Tell FEMA to Improve Clarity on Federal Regulations for Hurricane Debris Removal

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and members of the Florida delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting written guidance on clear guidance on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) debris removal policy.

• “Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response….[W]e ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts.”

Click here for a full list of signers.  

The full text of the letter is below. 

Dear Mr. President:

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several of Florida’s local governments are experiencing significant hardship as they seek to respond to the diverse needs of their constituents who are struggling to recover. Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.

After major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal demolition and waste disposal. It is our understanding that FEMA has previously issued disaster specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and remain eligible for reimbursement while fully utilizing the program waivers that have been implemented.

We acknowledge and appreciate FEMA’s letter dated October 13, 2024, which provided necessary flexibility and waivers from needing to identify which specific damage was caused by Hurricane Helene and which was caused by Hurricane Milton. In light of that letter, we ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts. This specifically includes:

1. Formalizing prior verbal confirmation with clear written guidance that FEMA will fully reimburse debris clean-up activities that took place between the two hurricanes in order to prevent loss of life and further destruction of property.
2. Granting additional flexibility with respect to Post-Milton debris clean-up that will enable expedited clean-up efforts.

Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.