Edwards Helene Report Recommendation Deployed Nationwide

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced FEMA’s implementation of his recommendation to expand the use of rapid estimates in the reimbursement process following Hurricane Helene, a change that has already helped move $150 million in recovery funding out the door faster.

Rapid estimates help state and local governments address immediate funding challenges, reduce delays in infrastructure repair, and restore essential public services sooner. This approach also allows communities to begin recovery work without waiting for final reimbursement approval, decreasing reliance on short-term borrowing or diverting funds from other public priorities.

By allowing FEMA to obligate Public Assistance funds using preliminary cost estimates, rather than waiting for fully finalized documentation, rapid estimates are speeding up infrastructure repairs and the restoration of essential services, particularly for small and rural communities facing financial challenges.

"When Hurricane Helene hit, communities across Western North Carolina were forced to spend millions of dollars immediately to restore essential services and begin the recovery process. I knew it was critical to expand the use of rapid reimbursements so local governments had the financial certainty they needed to keep projects moving and continue rebuilding,” said Congressman Edwards. “I am grateful that FEMA and this Administration recognized the severity of the situation and took action by implementing the recommendation I outlined in my Hurricane Helene Report to the President."

“President Trump’s FEMA is cutting bureaucracy, which is saving hard working Americans money. RAPID has been used on 105 infrastructure projects since July 2025, totaling about $374 million. Implementation of RAPID is more quickly delivering federal funds to states, which puts states back in the driver’s seat to manage their recovery after disasters,” said Victoria Barton, Associate Administrator for FEMA’s Office of External Affairs.

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