SC Oklahoma News

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole announced the successful passage of the American Relief Act of 2025 in the United States House of Representatives. This legislation aims to provide assistance to Americans affected by natural disasters and support recovery efforts.

Cole emphasized the widespread impact of disasters across the nation, particularly in his home state of Oklahoma. "Disasters know no bounds - and this year, our nation experienced many," he stated. "In the face of these recent disasters, Americans throughout the country stepped up to help their fellow Americans, and so must Congress."

The bill includes $110 billion in disaster assistance for states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and others in Western regions. It focuses on rural communities and aims to prevent a government shutdown while allowing President Trump to participate in fiscal appropriations.

Key funding allocations include $31 billion for USDA disaster aid for farmers and ranchers; $1.5 billion for long-term infrastructure recovery through the Economic Development Administration; $2.2 billion for SBA Disaster Loans Program; $29 billion for FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund; and various other funds targeting historic preservation, national park service construction, tribal rebuilding efforts, veterans facilities repair, and housing development.

Cole called upon Senate colleagues to advance the bill swiftly: "I encourage our colleagues in the Senate to advance this bill to bring relief to crises felt in every corner of our great nation."