Today Senators Hawley (R-Mo.), Blunt (R-Mo.), and the Missouri Congressional delegation sent a letter to President Biden in support of Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the City of St. Louis, as well as St. Louis, St. Charles, and Montgomery counties in Missouri overwhelmed by severe weather and flash flooding.
Record setting rainfall caused flash flooding in the St Louis region leading to hundreds of home evacuations and, tragically, two deaths. The Preliminary Damage Assessment determined over $35 million in damages and emergency response costs have been incurred by the local governments. A Major Disaster Declaration could provide much-needed federal resources and programs, such as debris removal, infrastructure and home repairs, rental assistance, and small business disaster loans.
Earlier this week, Senator Hawley met with FEMA, local officials, and residents while touring flood damage at public buildings and residences across the St. Louis region.
Other letter signatories include: Representatives Cori Bush (MO-1), Ann Wagner (MO-2), Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-3), Vicky Hartzler (MO-4), Emanuel Cleaver, II. (MO-5), Sam Graves (MO-6), Billy Long (MO-7) and Jason Smith (MO-8).
The Missouri lawmakers wrote, “We respectfully request your prompt action to ensure that these communities receive the immediate federal support needed to respond to the disaster. Along with our fellow Missourians, we appreciate your attention to this request and stand by ready to assist in any way possible.”
View the full letter here.