The unfortunate result of this will be when future natural disasters wreak havoc. FEMA did the best they could, in my opinion, by issuing these debit cards because the chief complaint arising out of these disasters is the slow relief efforts rolled out by FEMA, Red Cross and the like. What I think will happen is that, even though probably a small percentage of folks abused these cards, FEMA will now require more proof of need before issuing the card which will result in a delay in relief efforts overall, then the uproar will begin again about the time it took for relief money to roll in.
I'm in no way suggesting folks that live in high-risk areas be made to move and that they're idiots for remaining, because that's ignorance at it's height. What I don't understand, however, is that these same people who continue to experience losses as a result of repeated natural disasters seem to not learn or prepare adequately based on their previous experiences. Can you be 100% prepared, absolutely not, but I do believe you can mitigate your suffering by doing some basic due diligence beforehand. When my family lived in Montgomery, AL we were exposed to many tornadoes resulting from hurricanes in the gulf. We always kept the basics on hand, just in case (food, water, batteries, etc.) but I do remember my father having a separate checking account based out of a bank in his hometown of Alliance, OH with a checkbook in our "supply" closet, just in case he needed quick cash. I don't think he ever had to tap into those funds in all the years we lived down there, but it was good to know we had the means if needed.
I'm in agreement with Eddy, pursue those individuals with fraudulent charges as best you can. Withold tax refunds, put liens on their property, whatever but don't stick the merchants, it's not their fault!
Bastards, they need to be made to aid in clean-up and rebuilding efforts until their bogus charges are worked off!
