Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Measures to Support Maui Wildfire Recovery

On August 8, 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration unveiled a comprehensive set of actions aimed at supporting Hawai’i homeowners in their efforts to rebuild following the devastating Maui wildfires. These measures, designed to provide both immediate relief and long-term support, underscore the administration’s commitment to the affected communities and their recovery process.

One of the key initiatives announced is the extension of financing flexibility through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Borrowers in Maui County now have until August 10, 2025, to apply for 203(h) financing, which offers up to 100 percent financing for home rebuilding. This extension provides a crucial lifeline for homeowners who may have otherwise struggled to secure the necessary funds for reconstruction.

In addition to the financing extension, the FHA has also prolonged its foreclosure moratorium for borrowers with FHA-insured single-family mortgages in Maui County until January 1, 2025. This measure offers affected residents additional time to recover and stabilize their financial situations without the imminent threat of foreclosure.

Substantial Funding and Housing Solutions

The Biden-Harris Administration has demonstrated its commitment to Maui’s recovery through significant financial support. Nearly $3 billion in Federal funding has been allocated for response, recovery, and rebuilding efforts, with almost $300 million specifically earmarked for safe housing for displaced survivors. This substantial investment aims to address both immediate needs and long-term recovery goals.

Recognizing the urgent need for housing solutions, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded $8.2 million in Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing (RUSH) funding. This allocation is targeted at addressing the needs of individuals and families at risk of homelessness in Maui, providing a critical safety net for the most vulnerable members of the community.

Furthermore, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and HUD are collaborating to transition residents from temporary shelters into more permanent housing solutions. This effort includes relocating survivors from hotel shelters to stable, long-term accommodations, ensuring a smoother path to recovery for affected families.

Community Renewal and Future Resilience

The administration’s support extends beyond housing to encompass broader community renewal efforts. Over $500 million has been allocated for debris removal, infrastructure rebuilding, and other emergency protective measures. These funds are crucial in laying the groundwork for Maui’s physical recovery and revitalization.

Looking to the future, the Biden-Harris Administration is placing a strong emphasis on climate resilience. The recovery efforts prioritize the construction of climate-resilient homes, aiming to protect families from future climate-fueled disasters and build a more sustainable community.

In recognition of Maui’s rich cultural heritage, the recovery process is being conducted with careful consideration of the Native Hawaiian community. The administration is committed to incorporating the voices and knowledge of Native Hawaiians to ensure that sacred lands, culture, and traditions are respected and preserved throughout the rebuilding process. As these efforts continue, President Biden has urged Congress to pass the Administration’s supplemental funding request, which would provide critical additional resources for long-term housing solutions in Maui, further solidifying the federal government’s commitment to the island’s full recovery.