Biden Increases Funding Level For Maui Emergency Work
The federal money can be used for debris removal and protective measures in the fire-devastated historic town and other damaged areas.
The White House said Friday that President Joe Biden has made additional disaster assistance available to Hawaii by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the state.
The work comes as a result of the Maui wildfires that began Aug. 8 and continue, but on a much smaller scale.
As of late Thursday, crews on Maui had contained 90% of the Lahaina fire, the Olinda fire is 85% contained and the Kula fire 80% is contained.
Under the president’s order, funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures — including direct assistance — has been increased to 100% of the total eligible costs for a continuous 30-day period of the state鈥檚 choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period.
The president and First Lady Jill Biden are Maui on Monday.
Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said Thursday that he has spoken with the president several times, and he has assured Hawaii of continued federal support.
