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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS) introduced their bipartisan legislation, the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act. This legislation will authorize a new competitive grant program through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for business district organizations, such as Main Street programs and local economic development entities, that provide tailored, on-the-ground assistance to small businesses in both urban and rural communities.
These grants will be used for community-based initiatives that help small businesses identify resources and create jobs. National nonprofits that apply for grants through the program must work with business district organizations, locally based nonprofit or public community, and economic development partners. Local subrecipients will receive a combination of resources and technical assistance, such as strategic planning, market analysis, grant writing, and business development services, to enhance their work.
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy, and this bill is an innovative way to grow capacity in our business districts and create more equitable economic opportunities and outcomes in Louisiana and nationwide,” said Rep. Carter. “This bill would increase needed resources for many organizations in my district that conduct critical, on-the-ground work to uplift small, local businesses.”
Small businesses are the backbone of our nation’s economy. A robust economic development framework requires investing in the success of entrepreneurs and the local business districts in which they operate.
"The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program will invest in the operational and technical capacity of business district organizations, strengthening these support systems to promote job growth, build local wealth, and improve the quality of life for underserved communities and entrepreneurs in South Mississippi," said Rep. Ezell."By providing critical technical assistance and helping these organizations access and utilize the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s RNTA grant program, we are ensuring that small communities have the resources they need to create stronger, more competitive business districts and drive long-term economic success."
"Broad Community Connections is committed to creating a flourishing community, connected by its people, its businesses and its culture. To reach this vision, capacity building resources and technical assistance are vital. We applaud the introduction of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program and are grateful for Rep. Carter's co-sponsorship of this important legislation,” said Dasjon S. Jordan, Executive Director, Broad Community Connections (New Orleans)
“Picayune Main Street’s mission is to preserve the historic character and integrity of our community’s downtown commercial and residential district, as well as to enhance the culture and quality of life through active community involvement. While we have seen successes, the additional support enabled through the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program would equip our organization to take this mission to new heights, facilitating small business growth, job creation, and enhanced quality of place for our community,” said Reba Beebe, Director, Picayune Main Street, Inc.
"Sankofa Community Development Corporation is excited about the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to offer opportunities to strengthen economic development initiatives. We initiated the Lower Ninth Ward Main Street project in alliance with a network of organizations, community stakeholders, and local businesses. We look forward to seeing its positive impact on the growth of small businesses and revitalization of our historic commercial corridor,” said Rashida Ferdinand, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sankofa Community Development Corporation
"By strengthening existing place-making efforts and serving as a catalyst for economic growth and development by creating a sense of place and pride for the community, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association is improving the quality of life in Hattiesburg. Added resources for capacity and technical assistance to expand our work will increase our impact. We are grateful for Rep. Ezell's support to make that vision a reality,” said Marlo Dorsey, Board Member, Mississippi Main Street Association and Hattiesburg Downtown Association
"The Mississippi Main Street Association is thankful for Representative Ezell's leadership of this legislation. As Mississippi’s leading organization for preservation-based community and economic development, we are excited about the potential of this funding to strengthen our network of organizations committed to supporting our downtowns and small businesses,” said Jim Miller, Executive Director, Mississippi Main Street Association
"We applaud Representatives Ezell and Carter for introducing the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. This program will provide critical resources to locally based, non-profit organizations that support small business ownership and economic revitalization in urban neighborhoods and rural communities across the country,” said Matt Josephs, Senior Vice President for Policy, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
"Main Street America is pleased to support the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We thank Representatives Ezell and Carter for recognizing the critical role that business district organizations, such as Main Street programs, play in creating thriving local economies,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America
"Small businesses are vital contributors to the health, vitality, and identity of neighborhoods. But they are also highly vulnerable to closure and displacement, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. This bill will help to provide businesses across the country with the assistance that they need to thrive. It will help disadvantaged business owners build greater wealth and long-term stability, and ensure that the communities they serve get the goods and services they need and deserve,” said Willow Lung-Amam, Ph.D., Director, Small Business Anti-Displacement Network
Background
Currently, grants under EDA are not used for capacity-building assistance and pass-through funds to local entities. The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act offers an opportunity to expand inclusive access to EDA resources by leveraging the expertise of national nonprofit partners with deep connections to small businesses to provide on-the-ground economic assistance to our nation’s downtowns. This will benefit small businesses and underserved communities by providing them with the expertise necessary to apply for federal grants. These grants will enable communities to fund projects that boost local economies, foster innovation, and strengthen their overall business infrastructure.
Small businesses are often found clustered in our business districts: neighborhood commercial corridors, Main Streets, downtowns, and other dense concentrations of small business development. Small businesses located in business districts are typically those under 20 employees, that are owned locally and hire locally, creating opportunities to build local wealth and sustain a community from the ground up. Research from the Association for Enterprise Opportunity indicates that unemployment would be eliminated if one-third of “microbusinesses” hired just one additional employee. Expanding resources for business district organizations can stimulate increased economic growth for these small businesses and for the community.
Organizational support for this bill includes: the Association for Enterprise Opportunity, Main Street America, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations, National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders, Small Business Majority, Small Business Anti-Displacement Network, Center on Rural Innovation, and Small Business Roundtable.
Read the full bill here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) led a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and House Appropriations Committee leaders urging the swift consideration and passage of the Biden Administration’s recent disaster supplemental appropriations request.
“Millions of Americans are waiting for Congress to provide their families with vital resources to recover from, mitigate, and rebuild after storms,” said Rep. Carter. “Natural disasters nationwide are increasing in frequency and intensity due to the climate crisis. This demands immediate federal response and robust support for affected communities. As lawmakers, it’s our job to ensure our constituents have the help they need to recover in the aftermath of disasters.”
“It’s been over 2 months since both Hurricanes Helene and Milton ravaged the Southeast and over 3 weeks since President Biden sent his emergency supplemental request. This Congress is not acting urgently to alleviate the pain of the millions of Americans impacted by these storms,” said Rep. Moskowitz. “I introduced H.R. 8716 all the way back in June to avoid our Disaster Relief Fund from running out, but Congress has unfortunately become far too reactive instead of proactive. We have to show the American people that our government still functions and can help those impacted by disaster recover in their hour of greatest need. This isn’t a can that we can keep kicking down the road, and we cannot play political games with disaster relief.”
The Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is the primary funding source for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) disaster relief programs. It funds "Direct Disaster Programs," which are the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) programs. On August 7th, FEMA announced that the DRF had become depleted and implemented Immediate Needs Funding (INF)—redirecting money from other programs to respond to the most urgent, lifesaving needs.
This was FEMA's second time instituting INF in the past two years. Though the continuing resolution government funding bill replenished the DRF in late September, FEMA now anticipates that it may need to institute INF restrictions again before the end of the calendar year. While FEMA can still respond to immediate disasters, implementing INF will result in stalled payments for past disasters and grant awards, potential staff furloughs, and delays in future disaster planning measures. These delayed payments put communities at risk of future disasters by halting critical disaster planning and hazard mitigation construction projects. The agency projects a DRF deficit of over $6 billion by the end of FY 2024 without supplemental appropriations.
Additionally, in October, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its disaster loan program ran out of funding, following increased demand from hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA has paused its disaster assistance loans to small businesses, homeowners, and renters until Congress approves more funding, leaving thousands of Americans waiting for Congress to approve funds so they can begin to rebuild their lives.
“The bipartisan nature of disaster relief efforts underscores the importance of rising above partisan differences in times of national crisis,” the Members wrote. “The communities grappling with the aftermath of disasters do not have the luxury of waiting for prolonged political debate. Therefore, we respectfully urge you to act swiftly to move this critical supplemental funding package forward, ensuring timely support for Americans in need.”
This letter was signed by 13 additional Members of Congress, including Reps. John Garamendi (D-CA), Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Julie Brownley (D-CA), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Steve Cohen (D-TN).
Background
In September, Congressmen Carter and Moskowitz led a bipartisan letter to House leadership and House Appropriations Committee leaders urging congressional action to replenish FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). In November, they sent a bipartisan letter calling on Congress to pass a package funding a variety of crucial disaster preparedness and recovery programs across the federal government, including FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, Small Business Administration's disaster loan program, USDA’s disaster relief programs, HUD’s Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' flood control efforts, among others.
Reps. Carter and Moskowitz are the co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus, which they formed in 2023. The caucus works across the aisle to advance legislation and policies that provide efficient, equitable relief for disaster survivors and promote measures for impacted communities to recover fully. The caucus also advocates for disaster preparedness and programs that help save lives while readying America’s communities for future incidents.
Read the full letter here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, voted to pass the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) in the House. WRDA is passed by every session of Congress and authorizes and funds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s activities for flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration.
“I proudly voted for this bill to help communities like LA-02 strengthen water resources infrastructure,” said Rep. Carter. “Water is the lifeblood of our nation’s economy, public health, and environment. In Louisiana we also know that we must plan comprehensively to manage water in our communities safely. WRDA is the mechanism Congress uses to provide flood protection in south Louisiana and build a stronger, healthier water system for our nation. I am proud to have achieved big wins for Louisiana in this important bill.”
Congressman Carter requested and won the inclusion of specific priorities and projects within this legislation to help improve daily life for his constituents and all Louisiana residents. These include:
Water Resource Development Act Provisions for LA-02:
- Authorized feasibility study of the New Orleans area saltwater intrusion issue - In 2023, extended drought conditions in the Mississippi River and Ohio River watersheds brought the Mississippi River’s flow in south Louisiana to near historic lows. The lack of flow from the river allowed a saltwater wedge from the Gulf of Mexico to push its way upriver toward the New Orleans metro area. New Orleans and the surrounding parishes and municipalities get their municipal water supply from the river. If the saltwater reached water intakes it would have threatened the ability to provide drinkable water for months. This bill authorizes a Corps feasibility study to explore projects to prevent future saltwater intrusion and positions the region to secure a Corps-approved prevention project.
- Hurricane Storm Disaster Risk Reduction System (HSSDRS) payback clarification - Clarifies that Louisiana has met its payback obligations for the HSDRRS system, the Greater New Orleans area flood control and levee system, through the state’s first two payments to USACE totaling $800 million. This clarification saves the state potentially hundreds of millions of dollars in additional payments and interest.
- Extension of Sec. 1020 authority through 2030 – Section 1020 provides authority for a non-Federal sponsor to transfer excess credit from one civil works project to another. Louisiana intends to use this authority to secure credit for the HSDRRS payback by transferring excess credit from Louisiana Coastal Area (LCA) efforts to the balance owed by HSDRRS.
- Lafourche Parish Levee System – Authorized a Corps study to provide recommendations for levees systems constructed to federal standards, but not constructed by the USACE, to become a federally recognized levee system. This will help local levee systems, like the South Lafourche Levee District, which constructed much of their levee system without the USACE, to become compliant in the view of the federal government and eligible for future federal support.
- Authorized feasibility study for the Lake Pontchartrain Barrier Project - The Lake Pontchartrain Barrier project is included within Louisiana’s 2023 Coastal Master Plan and has risk reduction benefits across an entire region. The project could install closure gates and weirs to an elevation of 2 feet across the passes at Chef Menteur, the Rigolets, and other minor passages for storm surge risk reduction within the Lake Pontchartrain Basin.
- Upper Barataria Basin and Morganza to the Gulf project tie-in - The 7-mile gap between the Morganza to the Gulf and Upper Barataria Basin projects is the only area without planned structural hurricane protection from Terrebonne Parish to the New Orleans HSDRRS System. This bill requires that the Corps evaluate measures to close this gap, aiming to provide continuous risk reduction for most coastal southeastern Louisiana residents.
- Extension of Authorization for West Bank Vicinity Project to 2033 - In 2014, the Corps was authorized to lift levees that have settled below the design grade. This authority, set to expire in 2028, is now extended to 2033, allowing the Corps to maintain the West Bank levee system at 100-year storm protection levels.
- Extension of 3017 authority to lift HSDRRS (WBV & LPV) levees to 2033- This extension will allow corps to lift levees that settle below design grade to restore the project to the authorized level of protection through 2033.
- Continuation of Non-Federal Implementation Pilot Program (Section 1043) to 2030 - The Non-Federal Project Implementation Pilot Program allows local Corps project partners, like the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, to execute and construct federally authorized projects. Given local interest in utilizing this program for major flood protection projects, this program is extended though 2030.
- Algiers Canal Levees Operations & Maintenance – Rep. Carter successfully added language for the USACE to assume responsibility for the operation and maintenance on the Algiers Canal levees section of the WBV project, saving the Plaquemines Parish and Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West hundreds of thousands of dollars a year.
- Delta Regional Authority (DRA) Reauthorization, Addition of Terrebonne Parish – The DRA was established in 2000 as a formal framework for joint federal-state collaboration to promote and encourage the economic development of the lower Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. To fulfill this purpose, DRA invests in projects supporting transportation infrastructure, basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and business development. Terrebonne Parish, previously excluded from the program, will now be eligible for additional workforce development and economic development funding through the DRA. The parish is home to Fletcher Technical Community College andother workforce development centers utilized by the surrounding region.
- U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Reauthorization – The EDA leads the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success worldwide. Despite EDA’s increased role in recent years and significant changes to the U.S. economy, the agency has not been reauthorized since 2004. WRDA includes priorities from bills Rep. Carter has filed, including:
- Planning grants - This bill expands the eligible uses of grants for economic development planning and administrative expenses to include leveraging private and philanthropic investment and preparing economic recovery plans in response to disasters. In 2023, Rep. Carter introduced the bipartisan Economic Empowerment Through Predevelopment Act to make these grants available.
- Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience – This legislation also establishes this office within EDA to improve national economic security and better support communities after hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, and other disasters.
Read the full WRDA here.
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Powerful Committee is Responsible for Appointing Members to Committee Seats and Shaping Policy Priorities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) announced that he was selected to serve on the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.
“I am grateful for the faith of my colleagues in selecting me for this powerful committee,” said Rep. Carter. “I’ve worked in public service my whole life and have always prided myself in my ability to build coalitions and sit at the table with anyone. I plan to do just that to continue delivering for our communities and empower every member of our caucus to do the same.”
The Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for appointing members of the House Democratic Caucus to committee seats and shaping policy priorities. The Steering and Policy Committee is considered an extension of House Democratic Leadership and considers candidates for committee leadership and votes to provide recommendations to the full caucus.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) was elected to serve as the Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) First Vice-Chair in the 119th Congress. This is the second-most senior position in caucus leadership and part of the Executive Committee.
“I’m humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve as First Vice-Chair in the powerhouse institution that is the Congressional Black Caucus. I thank my colleagues for entrusting me with this leadership position” said Rep. Carter. “I came to Congress to be the voice of my constituents, and it is a job that I take very seriously. This is an enormous responsibility, and I know that the Black community in my state depends on me to advocate for us within systems that too-often are designed to silence our voices. I will not be silent.
“With Donald Trump’s incoming administration, the wisdom, values, and strategic leadership that are the foundation of the CBC are more critical than ever. Days after the election, President-Elect Trump began to promote many ideas from Project 2025 as priorities for his Administration. We know that the Black community stands to suffer greatly from Project 2025. The CBC will be at the forefront of pushing back on what is going to be a radical agenda. In this leadership role in the Congressional Black Caucus, and everyday as a Congressman, I will continue fighting for the issues that make a difference to all Louisianians and Americans.”
Since its establishment in 1971, the Congressional Black Caucus has been committed to using the full Constitutional power, statutory authority, and financial resources of the federal government to ensure that African Americans and other marginalized communities have a shot at the American Dream. The CBC is often referred to as the “Conscience of the Congress.”
While the CBC has predominately been made up of members of the Democratic Party, the founding members of the caucus envisioned a non-partisan organization. Consequently, the CBC has a long history of bipartisan collaboration and members who are both Democrat and Republican.
The full results of the 119th Congressional Black Caucus leadership election will be shared by the Congressional Black Caucus here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Garret Graves (R-LA) introduced their bipartisan legislation, the Offshore Parity Act of 2024 that will expand the state authority of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama in the Gulf of Mexico. Expanding state sovereignty in the Gulf would give Louisiana greater management authority over resources and their revenues, including energy and fisheries.
“This is a critical step toward equality, ensuring Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have the same authority over their waters as Texas and Florida,” said Rep. Carter. “This bill will empower us to manage our energy resources, protect our coastal communities, and strengthen our fisheries—securing both economic and environmental benefits for our state. I’m proud to join Congressman Graves in this bipartisan effort to give us the tools to build a more resilient and prosperous future.
This bill would amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to extend Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi’s authorities to the same extent as Texas and Florida. Louisiana’s offshore boundary is now just one marine league, or three nautical miles, while Texas and Florida have authority over three leagues from their coast, or nine nautical miles.
“Texas and Florida have nearly nine miles of state waters, while Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama have just three. I’m not sure who was negotiating for us generations ago, but that is just ridiculous. Our bill fixes this disparity by giving all Gulf states the same nine miles of energy, fisheries, and other resources to manage,” said Rep Graves. “Energy production in Louisiana waters will result in new revenue to rebuild our coast and protect our people and energy infrastructure. And Louisiana fisheries management will remain the best in the country. This is a win for energy, ecosystems, and estuaries – and that benefits all Americans.
Background
In the 1940s, coastal states began staking claim to resources in waters off their coastline, and questions over federal and state jurisdiction ensued. As a result, Congress passed the Submerged Lands Act of 1953 (SLA) to establish coastal states' jurisdiction and boundaries.
The SLA, with federal courts, granted Texas and the Gulf Coast of Florida jurisdiction of 9 nautical miles, or three marine leagues, off their coastlines, while it established Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama’s coastline at three nautical miles.
The State of Louisiana challenged this restriction before the United States Supreme Court in 1969, which ruled in United States vs. Louisiana that Louisiana could not prove it had jurisdiction over the waters extending 3 marine leagues from its coastline before it entered the Union, and therefore its state waters would stay at 3 nautical miles. The Offshore Parity Act of 2024 fixes this disparity.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement on Clancy DuBos retirement:
“Dear Clancy,
“As you prepare to retire at the end of 2024, I want to express my heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude for your remarkable contributions to Louisiana’s political landscape over the past five decades. Your unwavering commitment to fair and insightful journalism has profoundly shaped our understanding of local, state, and national politics, as well as the rich tapestry of our culture.
“Your ability to ‘call balls and strikes’ with impartiality and integrity has set a standard for political commentary. By consistently staying above the fray, you’ve fostered informed discourse and elevated the quality of public debate. Your love for the political process and your expertise have been evident in every column and analysis, earning you the respect and admiration of colleagues and readers alike.
“It has been an honor to call you a friend and colleague. Your wisdom, wit, and unwavering dedication have been a source of inspiration. As you embark on this new chapter, I extend my very best wishes to you, Margo, and Will. I have no doubt that your ‘retirement’ will be anything but conventional—there’s simply too much talent and passion to be bottled up.
“May this next phase be filled with joy, adventure, and the fulfillment of long-awaited pursuits. Congratulations, Clancy. You deserve every bit of celebration and more.
“With deepest respect and warmest regards,”
Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to United States Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Christopher A. Wray urging them to evaluate the threat of recent racist, vile, and threatening text messages targeting young African Americans across the country. The Members request that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) take action to strengthen security measures as appropriate.
“These disturbing communications, threatening kidnapping and physical harm, not only threaten the well-being of those targeted, but the security of our nation as the messages intend to incite fear and sow division,” the Members wrote. “Our young people deserve to pursue their education and live their lives without fear, and these terroristic actions are a stark reminder of the prevention and mitigation efforts required to preserve such rights and ensure unity, inclusivity, and respect.”
Background
In March of 2022, Congressman Carter met with FBI Director Christopher Wray as a part of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) regional symposium. The conversation focused on the FBI and federal law enforcement’s response to recent bomb threats at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country.
Read the full letter here.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), 2nd Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement in response to racist text messages sent to Black people nationwide:
“It is deeply disturbing to learn that vile, racist, and threatening messages are being directed at young African Americans across our nation, including on our college campuses. Such acts of hatred have no place in our society. They are an affront to the principles of equality, respect, and unity that form the very foundation of our democracy.
“These malicious actions, intended to spread fear and division, remind us of the work that remains in combating hate and ensuring safety and dignity for all Americans. Let it be clear: we will not be intimidated or silenced. Those who seek to sow discord will not succeed.
“We stand united against all forms of extremism, and we reaffirm our commitment to a nation where every individual is treated with respect and dignity. Together, we will confront this darkness with resilience, and we will continue to build a future rooted in justice and inclusion.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) led a bipartisan letter to House and Senate Appropriations Committee leaders urging the swift passage of a robust and comprehensive disaster supplemental appropriations bill. Sixteen additional Members of Congress joined Reps. Carter and Moskowitz on this request.
“Storms don’t discriminate, and it’s more important than ever that we work together to save lives and prepare our communities,” said Rep. Carter. “Americans deserve a government that prioritizes disaster response funding and ensures we aren’t only responding to current storms, but actively rebuilding from past events and mitigating future disasters. We owe it to Louisianians to pass a real budget, not a 90-day half-measure.”
“As the former Emergency Management Director for Florida, I believe that the financial state of FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund is incredibly troubling,” said Rep. Moskowitz. “This is the second year that Congress has let the Disaster Relief Fund be depleted. I introduced H.R. 8716 in June to avoid this scenario, but Congress has unfortunately become far too reactive instead of proactive. We must demonstrate to the American people that our government still works and can carry out basic functions like helping those impacted by disaster recover in their hour of greatest need. Emergency management shouldn’t ever be politicized or used as a bargaining chip, and I’m thankful to be leading this letter with Congressman Carter and to have bipartisan support.”
The Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is the primary funding source for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) disaster relief programs. It funds "Direct Disaster Programs," which are the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) programs. On August 7th, FEMA announced that the DRF had become depleted and implemented Immediate Needs Funding (INF)—redirecting money from other programs to respond to the most urgent, lifesaving needs.
This was FEMA's second time instituting INF in the past two years. Though the continuing resolution government funding bill replenished the DRF in late September, FEMA now anticipates that it may need to institute INF restrictions again before the end of the calendar year. While FEMA can still respond to immediate disasters, implementing INF will result in stalled payments for past disasters and grant awards, potential staff furloughs, and delays in future disaster planning measures. These delayed payments put communities at risk of future disasters by halting critical disaster planning and hazard mitigation construction projects. The agency projects a DRF deficit of over $6 billion by the end of FY 2024 without supplemental appropriations.
Additionally, in October, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its disaster loan program ran out of funding, following increased demand from hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA has paused its disaster assistance loans to small businesses, homeowners, and renters until Congress approves more funding.
“Congress must work together to address the pressing needs of communities across the nation that were devastated by recent natural disasters,” the Members wrote. “This is the second straight year FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) was nearly depleted, causing FEMA to delay long-term recovery projects and planning. We must accept our new reality of the increasing frequency and severity of disasters and fully fund our disaster relief programs. A comprehensive disaster supplemental bill should provide essential funding to our most critical federal programs.”
The Members call on Congress to pass a package funding a variety of crucial disaster preparedness and recovery programs across the federal government, including FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, Small Business Administration's disaster loan program, USDA’s disaster relief programs, HUD’s Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' flood control efforts, among others.
This letter was signed by Reps. Julia Brownley (D-CA), Donald Davis (D-NC), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Val Hoyle (D-OR), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Gwen Moore (D-WI), James Moylan (R-GU), Katie Porter (D-CA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Nikema Williams (D-GA), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).
Background
In September, Congressmen Carter and Moskowitz led a bipartisan letter to House leadership and House Appropriations Committee leaders urging congressional action to replenish FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF).
Reps. Carter and Moskowitz are the co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus, which they formed in 2023. The caucus works across the aisle to advance legislation and policies that provide efficient, equitable relief for disaster survivors and promote measures for impacted communities to recover fully. The caucus also advocates for disaster preparedness and programs that help save lives while readying America’s communities for future incidents.
Read the full letter here
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:
“To the incredible people of Louisiana's Second Congressional District:
“Thank you. I am profoundly honored by the trust you have placed in me once again to represent you in the United States Congress. This is not just a victory for my campaign; it is a victory for every one of us who believes in the promise of progress, fairness, and opportunity for all.
“Every day, I will continue to wake up inspired by your resilience, your strength, and your dreams for a better future. I am committed to giving my all—every fiber of my being—to fight for each and every one of you. Together, we will keep pushing forward on the issues that matter most: creating jobs, ensuring justice, protecting our environment, expanding access to healthcare, and building a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.
“At this critical moment in our nation's history, we also face a profound responsibility to heal the divides that have separated us for too long. It is time to come together, to listen to one another, and to recognize the fundamental equality and dignity of every American. Only by standing united can we build a country that reflects the values we cherish.
“Thank you for the privilege of serving as your voice in Washington. We have much work to do, and I am ready to continue this journey with you. I am filled with hope for all that we will achieve together.
“With deepest gratitude and unwavering commitment,”
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan, EPA Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance, Mayor LaToya Cantrell, members of the New Orleans City Council, and Dr. Beverly Wright, Founder & Executive Director of the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice (DSCEJ), commemorated the first shuttered house demolition within the Gordon Plaza subdivision. This event marks the beginning of a significant redevelopment effort to transform the former Superfund site into a community solar farm.
Residents of the Gordon Plaza subdivision, which was developed on the former Agriculture Street Landfill, have faced longstanding environmental health concerns. After years of resident advocacy, this first demolition represents a vital step towards rectifying past injustices and revitalizing the area.
“For decades, the families of Gordon Plaza have lived in the shadow of the Agriculture Street Landfill—a place originally intended to hold waste, not lives, dreams, or futures. What should have been a vibrant neighborhood became a place of environmental injustice,” said Rep. Carter. “Through their resilience, the people of Gordon Plaza have fought tirelessly, ensuring that their voices were heard, their health safeguarded, and their rights upheld. Today, we move forward on a project that will turn past wrongs into a foundation for future promise. This solar farm will not only provide clean, renewable energy to our communities, but it will also advance our commitment to environmental justice, equity, and sustainability. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this vision, especially the residents of Gordon Plaza.”
In 2023, the City of New Orleans allocated $35 million to purchase the homes in the Gordon Plaza subdivision and provide homeowners and renters the necessary funds to relocate from the site to healthy homes of their choice. The EPA supported a renewable energy reuse assessment and solar feasibility study of the site for the city. The studies found that the site can produce up to 6.4 megawatts of clean, renewable solar energy through the construction of a community solar farm, which aims to provide affordable, clean energy to low-income residents, while significantly reducing carbon emissions.
“When I was confirmed as EPA Administrator, I vowed to visit communities who have endured environmental injustices to hear first-hand about the challenges their communities face,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “One of my first stops in our Journey to Justice was to Gordon Plaza to elevate the voices that for decades were calling for change. Since then, EPA worked closely with Mayor Cantrell, Congressman Carter, and the residents to build the foundation for a cleaner, revitalized area. I am proud to be back today as we continue our fight to right the historic wrongs that have held back so many in this community.”
“This demolition marks a pivotal moment for the Gordon Plaza community and the City of New Orleans as a whole,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “By transforming this site into a community solar farm, we are not only addressing a painful past but also creating a brighter, more sustainable future. This project represents our commitment to clean energy, environmental justice, and resilience, and I am grateful to all our partners and community members who have made this possible.”
“It is very good news that the demolition of houses built on a toxic waste site is finally occurring,” said Councilman Eugene Green, District D. “It is also good news that the Gordon Plaza site will become a solar farm that provides clean and efficient energy. The work of the New Orleans City Council and the Cantrell Administration to make funding available for the relocation of residents was a worthy endeavor long overdue. My wish and prayer for the former residents of Gordon Plaza is that they are able to move forward with their lives in their new communities.”
“I’ve worked in the environmental justice field before we even had a name for it,” said Dr. Beverly Wright, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice Founder and Executive Director. “One thing I’ve learned in all those years is that every victory is hard won, and this one is no exception. While I am elated to see this long-overdue demolition—and excited about the solar farm that will stand in its place—I am more than anything in awe of the community here that never gave up, and who made this day possible. Justice should never take this long, but I’m so glad you didn’t give up.”
Background
The Agriculture Street Landfill in New Orleans served as a municipal waste disposal area from approximately 1909 through 1957 and reopened from 1965 to 1966 for emergency purposes after Hurricane Betsy. The Landfill is in the Desire Neighborhood and was developed during the 1970s and 1980s for residential purposes.
In 1994, the Agriculture Street Landfill was designated a Superfund site by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA’s Region 6 completed remediation activities at the landfill in 2002.
The EPA provided technical resources through the Superfund Program, which funded the science and engineering work to develop a solar farm project. The Study estimates that with a minimum of 40-acres of property, building the solar farm would cost approximately $10M. The city has allocated bond funds to develop the solar park project. EPA updated a site Reuse Assessment in Summer 2022 which identified several options for placement of the solar farm and placement of other future resources such as electric vehicle charging stations.
Sustainability and resilience have been prioritized across multiple initiatives in the City of New Orleans, like the redevelopment of the Agriculture Street Landfill and Lincoln Beach, aligning with broader efforts to address climate change and environmental inequities. Congressman Carter has helped secure $131 million in federal awards to implement the City’s Climate Action Plan goals.
For more information about the redevelopment of the Agriculture Street Landfill, please visit https://nola.gov/agstreet.
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