Today, National Governors Association (NGA) Chairman Governor Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas and Vice Chairman Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey called on Congress to swiftly pass a federal funding measure to keep the government open, as well as help support state and territorial efforts in responding to disasters and assisting in Afghan refugee resettlement efforts.
“From COVID-19 to hurricanes, droughts and wildfires, every state and territory is facing the toll of historic and catastrophic disasters. These challenges have created huge financial risk and required states to make extraordinary expenditures.
“As these events continue to stress our communities, Congress must continue to invest in federal support programs for disaster response and recovery – such as the Disaster Relief Fund and the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Assistance program – and ensure no break in funding for these programs as a myriad of crises face the nation.
“Additionally, states and territories are key partners in our nation’s refugee resettlement programs, and we stand ready to support our Afghan partners as they seek to restart their lives here in the United States. Increased authorities and funding for critical federal assistance programs will allow states, territories and localities to better work with our federal partners in supporting individuals and families as they are placed in supportive communities.
“Our nation’s Governors request that Congress pass a disaster supplemental and resettlement package in a timely fashion.”
The Governors continued:
“We also call on Congress to renew its focus on the timely passage of a full Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations to avoid any lapse in federal funding. Analysis by the United States Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations concludes that the last three shutdowns have cost the taxpayers more than $4 billion.
“Furthermore, a lack of certainty regarding the federal budget hinders the ability of states to effectively plan our own budgets and administer federal programs. Timely passage of a full budget will ensure that there are no disruptions to critical services for our constituents and give us the clarity we need to govern effectively.”
