FEMA Wants to Recoup $30.3 Million Paid To Floridians For Hurricane Relief

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FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) - The federal government is asking more than 7,600 Floridians in 60 counties to return $30.3 million in emergency hurricane aid dispensed last year when a record four hurricanes slammed the state.

Most of the payments the Federal Emergency Management Agency wants back are because of insurance settlements reached after the government aid was doled out. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate insurance coverage, spokesman Jim Homstad said.

The measure will mostly affect St. Lucie County, which was battered by Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne last year. Residents there are being asked to return $3.7 million. In Palm Beach County, FEMA is seeking nearly $3.4 million. snip

The agency has come under fire from lawmakers for allegedly paying millions to residents who made fraudulent claims.