U.S. Senators Josh Hawley, (R-Mo.) Eric Schmitt, and Congressman Jason Smith sent a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to approve Missouri Governor Parson’s disaster declaration request for urgent financial relief. The lawmakers’ letter comes after devastating storms battered Missouri last month, damaging countless homes and businesses.
“On Wednesday, June 12, Governor Parson requested a major disaster declaration after multiple severe weather events occurred in the State of Missouri between May 19 and May 27,” wrote Senator Hawley and his colleagues.
They continued, “These storms generated tornadoes, high winds, heavy rain, and flooding across southern Missouri, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. State and local governments continue to be burdened by the costs that have been incurred in the ongoing effort to protect life and property.
Read the full letter here or below.
June 19, 2024
The Honorable Joseph R. Biden
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500
Dear President Biden,
We write in support of Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s request to approve a major presidential disaster declaration, as authorized by the Stafford Act, for public assistance in 15 of Missouri’s 114 counties, as well as individual assistance in 10 Missouri counties.
On Wednesday, June 12, Governor Parson requested a major disaster declaration after multiple severe weather events occurred in the State of Missouri between May 19 and May 27. These storms generated tornadoes, high winds, heavy rain, and flooding across southern Missouri, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. State and local governments continue to be burdened by the costs that have been incurred in the ongoing effort to protect life and property.
We respectfully request your prompt action to ensure that these communities receive the immediate support needed to respond to the disaster. Along with our fellow Missourians, we appreciate your attention to this request and stand ready to assist in any way possible.
Sincerely,
Josh Hawley
United States Senator
Eric Schmitt
United States Senator
Jason Smith
United States Congressman