MIAMI, Sept. 23 (UPI) -- The financial impact of Hurricanes Charley, Frances and Ivan on the Florida budget is estimated at $1 billion, and could go higher, state officials said.
The state Legislature is expected to consider adding to the bill by helping out victims with deductibles not covered by insurance, The Miami Herald reported Thursday.
The lawmakers could also give a tax rebate to property owners whose homes or businesses have been damaged by the storm.
"We don't really know yet what the complete implications are going to be," said state Sen. Tom Lee, president-elect of the Senate.
Gov. Jeb Bush's budget chief said the storms could cost state, local and federal governments a total of $4 billion.
Budget Director Michael Hansen said Florida's share could be $1 billion, but that would depend on how much money the federal government comes up with.
Congress has approved a $2 billion aid package, much of it for Florida, and President Bush has asked for $3.1 billion more.
