Federal and State level officials are still pushing for addition support for the Panhandle and other areas heavily affected by Hurricane Michael. Since the devastating hurricane, Florida lawmakers moved swiftly to respond not only legislatively but also with onsite efforts, transporting supplies to people in need.

Staffers for Senator Marco Rubio commented on the Senator’s efforts to get more federal aid. His office noted that “There’s a lot of work left to do, but our office continues to stand ready to assist Floridians. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, he’ll also be working in the new Congress to secure supplemental funding for Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Michael.”

In addition, the Department of Agriculture announced that it will be waiving onsite inspections for the Emergency Forestry Restoration Program in counties that were impacted by Michael.

Republican Representative Ted Yoho, a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, applauded the decision, saying that “I support the USDA’s recent announcement to waive the requirement for on-site staff inspections for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP). Following Hurricane Michael, large swaths of Florida’s panhandle and surrounding counties were left devastated. The large amounts of fallen timber on private land is substantial and needs to be addressed to prevent pest infestation and potential wildfires. Landowners affected by Hurricane Michael need an expedited process, so they can salvage this fallen timber and rehabilitate their land as quickly as possible. I applaud the USDA and their effort to make this happen. Anyone needing assistance should visit their local FSA office.”

Furthermore, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, who just won his reelection bid against Democrat Jeremy Ring, provided an update on recovery efforts, detailing that “One month ago, Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle. I’ve witnessed firsthand the amazing strides these resilient communities have made towards recovery. I want the nation to know that the Panhandle is open for business and we are on our way back and will be stronger than ever.”