SUMMARY: Relief efforts for Hurricane Helene in North Carolina received a boost with the passage of the American Relief Act 2025, which allocates $110 billion for various disasters, including Hurricane Helene. While bipartisan support was shown, Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop opposed the resolution. President Biden signed the bill, directing about $9 billion specifically to North Carolina for disaster recovery, including support for infrastructure and agriculture. The aid aims to address devastation from Helene, which caused significant loss of life and property damage. Key officials emphasized the importance of this funding for the recovery of communities in western North Carolina.

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SUMMARY: AAA forecasts a record 108,677 more travelers this year in Georgia, with 3.7 million expected to journey over 50 miles, primarily by car. Factors influencing travel include colder weather reducing gas demand and a shift to online holiday shopping. Current gas prices in Georgia are stable at $2.92 per gallon, slightly lower than last year’s $3. Nearby states generally offer cheaper gas, with Tennessee at around $2.72. Lane closures on major highways will be suspended from Monday until January 5. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport anticipates a busy Christmas Day, expecting 327,724 travelers.

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SUMMARY: As North Carolinians prepare for holiday travel, the average price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $2.83, below the national average of $3.05. AAA anticipates 3.5 million residents traveling at least 50 miles from home in the state between December 23 and January 1. While North Carolina’s gasoline prices are better than a month ago, diesel averages $3.41. Among 14 major metro areas, Jacksonville has the lowest unleaded price at $2.72, while Durham-Chapel Hill has the highest at $2.97. North Carolina’s gas taxes, currently 40.4 cents per gallon, fund transportation projects statewide.

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