Disaster relief assistance for Hurricane Helene
Numerous counties in several southeastern U.S. states have been declared federal disaster areas because of extensive flooding and other damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has information on its website regarding the coordinated federal, state and local response and recovery efforts related to this natural disaster. Additional information regarding response and recovery efforts across all federal agencies is available at www.usa.gov/hurricane-helene. Also, the U.S. Small Business Administration provides qualifying businesses with access to low-interest loans and other resources in designated areas for recovery and is expected to announce specific eligibility for Hurricane Helene soon. NRCA staff continue to keep those affected in our thoughts; please let us know if there is anything we can do to help with response and recovery efforts.
Port strike threatens shipping
On Oct. 1, members of the International Longshoremen’s Association went on strike at ports along the East and Gulf Coasts upon the expiration of their contract with the United States Maritime Alliance. A lengthy strike that interrupts the flow of international commerce could have significant adverse effects on supply chains and economic growth across the U.S. NRCA joined with allied associations in sending a coalition letter to President Biden, which calls on him to use existing presidential authorities to “take immediate action to resolve this situation expeditiously” given the importance to “both economic and national security.” Negotiations on a new labor contract continue, but it is unclear whether the parties are close to an agreement. Any prolonged resulting economic impacts could affect the presidential and congressional elections Nov. 5. NRCA will continue working toward resolution and monitoring the situation and will provide updates as developments warrant.
Border security final rule
On Sept. 30, the Biden-Harris administration took additional measures to strengthen border security by expanding restrictions on asylum eligibility rules at the southern U.S. border. The final rule modifies an interim proposal issued in June by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice by implementing tighter measures to reduce access to asylum for noncitizens who cross the border between ports of entry under certain conditions. The rule is designed to further limit unauthorized border crossings, which had reached record levels in 2023 but have abated somewhat in recent months. The final rule contains some measures similar to bipartisan border security and immigration legislation introduced in February that stalled in the Senate. The stricter rules have faced criticism from some immigrant advocate groups and face legal challenges now before the courts.
Election Day is Nov. 5, but voting has begun in many states
Although Election Day is a month away, voters in many states have already begun early voting. This month-long process in many states adds a layer of complexity to candidates’ campaign strategies while giving voters easier access to the democratic system by offering many ways (and days) to vote. NRCA encourages everyone to exercise their civic duty and vote—whether on Election Day, in-person during early voting or by mail. Extended flexibility also has been granted to those in disaster-affected locations. Please take a moment to learn more about your state’s deadlines and do your research to vote for candidates who will best serve our industry and our country.
