Cooper unveils $1.5B Florence aid package, seeks $750M now

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper wants state lawmakers to provide $750 million next week as part of a long-term $1.5 billion Hurricane Florence recovery package.

The Democratic governor revealed his proposal Wednesday, saying the state needs a “unique and bold” response to a storm his office estimates caused almost $13 billion in damage — as much as hurricanes Floyd and Matthew did combined.

Cooper ultimately wants a half-billion dollars toward housing and another $310 million to help farmers. Other money would go to repair public schools, universities and roads.

Congress already has approved $1 billion for North Carolina’s recovery.

The governor says his request wouldn’t require higher taxes — initial money would come from the state’s savings reserve and money unspent in this year’s budget.

The Republican-controlled legislature reconvenes Monday.