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Health & Fitness

Congresswoman Duckworth Helps Lead Call For Federal Disaster Assistance To Illinois Counties Devastated by Flooding

Congresswoman Duckworth Helps Lead Call For Federal Disaster Assistance To Illinois Counties Devastated by Flooding

Thursday, Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth (IL-8) joined Senator Dick Durbin (IL-D) and Senator Mark Kirk (IL-R) in a letter to President Obama from the Illinois Congressional Delegation supporting the state of Illinois’ request that counties devastated by flooding receive a federal disaster declaration. Duckworth led the effort to secure support among the members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation in the House of Representatives. Cook, DuPage, and Kane counties are included in the request to President Obama. A major disaster declaration will make critical federal assistance available to communities so that they can rebuild and recover from the severe storm. 

“My neighbors have suffered a great deal from the flooding that has devastated our state,” said Duckworth. “They have showed tremendous resilience and I have been inspired by so many in our community who have selflessly helped those in need during this difficult time. Still, my neighbors who have been affected by flooding are in need of additional assistance.”

“One of my first votes in Congress was to provide additional aid for those who underwent hardship during Hurricane Sandy. As Americans, it is our responsibility to stand up for each other in times of need. The people of Illinois have stood with citizens throughout our country in their times of need, and I am confident that our federal government and the American people will stand with us now.”

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The text of the letter to President Obama is below:

Dear Mr. President:

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We write in support of Illinois Governor Pat Quinn’s request for a federal disaster declaration for counties in Illinois.  Forty-eight counties have been declared a state disaster to date.  Federal assistance is necessary to help these counties recover from flash and river flooding that occurred as a result of severe April rainstorms. 

The State of Illinois has determined that state and local funds are not adequate to address the damage to public infrastructure and costs related to debris removal and emergency protective measures resulting from this weather event. 

As a result of the torrential rainfall, rivers in Illinois reached historic record-high levels and dangerous flooding occurred all across the state. Our communities experienced major property damage, evacuations, road closures, at least one fatality and several injuries. It is clear from the magnitude of the damage that recovery efforts will be beyond the means of state and local budgets.  A major disaster declaration will make critical federal assistance available to help our communities to rebuild and recover from this severe storm. 

We respectfully request that you make the necessary declaration so that these counties can receive the assistance they need.  We thank you in advance for your timely consideration of this important request and stand ready to assist in any way appropriate.

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