FEMA has confirmed that the CNMI’s request for Disaster Unemployment Assistance remains under active federal review, Del. Kimberlyn King‑Hinds said, as workers continue to seek clarity on when aid will be available following Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
King‑Hinds said she spoke with FEMA Region 9 Administrator Robert Fenton last week to clarify the status of the request and the remaining steps before assistance can be released. FEMA confirmed that the CNMI formally requested disaster unemployment assistance as part of the Sinlaku recovery process and remains eligible for the program.
According to FEMA, the CNMI requested $10.1 million in disaster unemployment benefits on June 8.
The U.S. Department of Labor endorsed the request and forwarded it to FEMA on June 10. FEMA is now reviewing the submission to ensure compliance with program guidelines.
FEMA also reiterated that for disaster awards exceeding $1 million, the agency must notify Congress and allow a 72‑hour review period before funds can be obligated. The notification is required under Section 507 of the Stafford Act and does not require a vote.
“I agree that Disaster Unemployment Assistance is needed, and I understand how difficult the wait is for workers and families,” King‑Hinds said. “As with other disaster programs, federal action begins after the local government submits the request. That request has now been made, the federal review is underway, and my office will keep working to make sure the process moves as quickly and clearly as possible.”
Disaster unemployment assistance provides temporary income support to workers — including certain self‑employed individuals — who lose work as a direct result of a major disaster and are not eligible for regular unemployment benefits. Benefits may be provided for up to 26 weeks and cannot extend beyond the Individuals and Households Program period of assistance, which for Sinlaku runs through Oct. 24, 2027.
Although federally funded, disaster unemployment assistance is administered locally under a federally approved operational plan. The CNMI Department of Labor will implement the program once FEMA completes its review, notifies Congress, and obligates funds to the U.S. Department of Labor.
“CNMI DOL submitted the request and has been preparing for implementation,” King‑Hinds said. “These programs require coordination between the Commonwealth, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Labor. Our job is to help keep that process moving, get clear answers from the federal government, and make sure workers are not left waiting any longer than necessary.”
FEMA has indicated it will release additional public information about the process and the status of the CNMI’s request. King‑Hinds said her office has also provided FEMA with local points of contact to support coordination with CNMI Department of Labor and other Commonwealth officials.
“Families and businesses affected by Sinlaku deserve accurate information and timely action,” she said. “We now have greater clarity on the federal process, and my office will continue pressing for a prompt decision and, when approved, a smooth implementation of the program.”
