North Carolina bans discrimination in disaster aid after FEMA controversy

In North Carolina, state lawmakers took significant steps to address discrimination in emergency aid distribution following incidents related to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. On April 1, 2025, the North Carolina House passed House Bill 251 by a vote of 106-10, making it a felony to discriminate against individuals seeking disaster assistance based on their political speech or affiliation. This decision arose in response to reports that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers had allegedly been instructed to bypass homes displaying Trump signs after Hurricane Milton struck the area. The incidents fueled a serious public outcry, prompting lawmakers to take action to ensure fair treatment in disaster responses. The bill, introduced by Representative Kelly Hastings (R-Gaston) earlier in February, amends the North Carolina Emergency Management Act to explicitly state that United States citizens, nationals, and qualified aliens cannot be denied disaster aid based on political views. Hastings highlighted the bill’s intent to safeguard political speech, which plays a critical role in American democracy. The former FEMA supervisor involved in the controversy, Marn'i Washington, claimed she was merely following orders from her superiors, who allegedly encouraged avoiding interactions with homeowners having politically charged signs, particularly Trump supporters. This led to a broader conversation about systemic issues within FEMA regarding how disaster relief was deployed, particularly regarding political affiliations. The Democrats in the state House largely opposed the bill, with all ten dissenting votes coming from their members. Representative Pricey Harrison of Guilford was noted for voting against an amendment that further defined eligibility within the bill. Nonetheless, the approved legislation will move on to the state Senate for consideration, representing a significant moment in North Carolina's legislative efforts to enhance equality in disaster recovery assistance.