Special Session Includes Post-Hurricane Relief
The Florida legislature will convene this week in a brief special session addressing a limited number of topics. Among these, the legislature is expected to provide additional relief for areas affected by Hurricane Idalia and increase funding for the My Safe Florida Home program.
Hurricane Idalia had a substantial impact on some of Florida’s rural areas. Bills filed for the special session will attempt to alleviate some of the financial burden in these areas, including for the agricultural industry. “From targeted relief programs that benefit homeowners and businesses, to investment in no-interest loan and cost sharing programs to help our agriculture and timber industries, to bridge programs that help local governments continue operations and fund recovery projects, we have a robust relief package that will impact families, businesses, and entire communities across Florida’s Big Bend in a meaningful way,” Senate President Kathleen Passidomo said in a recent press release.
The special session is expected to include more than $176 million for the My Safe Florida Home program. This program provides grant for homeowners hardening their homes against hurricanes. The program has received applications exceeding its most recent funding.