West Florida News

U.S. Representative Greg Steube from Florida has introduced the Securing Taxpayer Assistance during Natural Disasters (STAND) Act, aimed at defunding foreign aid during domestic natural disasters. The legislation comes in response to recent hurricane seasons that have left Floridians and Carolinians in difficult conditions, with many still living under tarps or tents.

"After one of the deadliest hurricane seasons on record, Floridians are still living under tarps, and Carolinians spent Thanksgiving freezing in tents. Meanwhile, the Biden administration continues to prioritize foreign aid over American citizens," said Rep. Steube. He criticized President Biden's announcement of $1 billion in disaster relief for Africa while victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in the U.S. await assistance.

The STAND Act proposes withholding bilateral, multilateral, and humanitarian non-defense foreign assistance by the State Department or USAID during the first 60 days following a Presidentially declared disaster unless waived by a joint resolution passed by Congress.

In recent months, despite two major hurricanes hitting U.S. territories, the Biden Administration announced significant foreign aid packages including over $1 billion for African countries affected by natural disasters and extreme weather events. Additional funding included $38 million for Cambodia's environment and food security programs and $157 million for Lebanon's humanitarian needs.

The STAND Act is supported by Representatives Troy Nehls from Texas, Doug LaMalfa from California, Bill Posey from Florida, and Thomas Tiffany from Wisconsin.