Up to $22 million in federal grants promised to Georgia have been terminated or are in limbo. The United States Department of Commerce has canceled grants set to help Georgians with internet access, labor, public health, disabilities, and electric vehicle development. The cuts to Georgia agencies are a part of the federal spending cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. This action leaves millions of Georgians without access to essential services. For example, the limited funding at the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities means people who have disabilities, who are trying to transition to independent living, are left waiting with their lives on hold.
As the hurricane season kicks off, services that enable accurate Hurricane forecasting have been stopped. As of June 30th, the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration stopped releasing satellite data that helps monitor hurricane development. This is bad news for weather forecasters and nearby countries that also depend on the data for safety measures. This vital data, that is no longer available, usually helps forecasters track, predict, and measure the paths and intensification of storms. Forecasting experts are concerned about the future of storm-prevention services and outcomes as extreme weather continues to increase. Because many Georgians are still recovering from Hurricane Helene, including waiting on FEMA funds, the lack of available data worsens the ability to prepare for future hurricanes, leaving communities in vulnerable and life-threatening situations.
Cuts to services that mainly help historically disadvantaged people, like low-income rural Georgians, put millions at personal risk. This missing information available to Georgians threatens the quality and quantity of resources available to people in general and especially those in need. At this time it is necessary to stay informed and trust accredited sources for information. Take action and contact your local legislature.
