VP Kamala Harris announces 100% reimbursement of local Helene response costs during remarks in Augusta

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris greets people who were impacted by Hurricane Helene in Augusta, Ga., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024, as Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson watches at right. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday that President Joe Biden has approved Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s request for 100% reimbursement of local costs of responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene during remarks in Augusta, Georgia.

Harris said the federal reimbursement will cover costs for services like food, water and shelter provided by local governments, debris removal and emergency services.

According to Harris, at least seven people have died in Richmond County, where Augusta is located, and 33 people have died in the entire state from effects of Hurricane Helene.