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Doggett, Casar request additional ice storm cleanup federal funding

DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Friday, February 24, 2023

Two of Texas’ congressional representatives are calling on President Biden to take action on requests from the state for funding to address the repercussions of the ice storm that hit the state earlier this month.

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett and U.S. Rep.Greg Casar sent a request Thursday to President Biden urging him to grant the request for a major disaster declaration submitted recently by Gov. Greg Abbott.

Central Texas was significantly affected by the storm which resulted in infrastructure damage and the loss of power for thousands of residents.

Hays County Commissioner Court Judge Ruben Becerra did issue a disaster declaration for the county on Feb. 3, at that time noting that there was significant damage reported. The National Weather Service issued its winter storm warning for the area early on Jan. 30 and that was extended through Feb. 2. Freezing rain and ice over this period caused falling trees and power outages.

In a letter to the President, both representatives with constituents in Hays, Travis and Williamson counties, stated, “We write to request that you grant the State of Texas’ request for a major disaster declaration in response to the recent ice storm that resulted in widespread power outages, property damage, infrastructure damage, and environmental damage, as well physical and financial hardship and danger for so many of our neighbors.”

In the letter, both Dogged and Casar noted that the size and scope of this latest storm requires a strong response with “additional coordination and a wider range of long-term federal recovery programs.” They reminded the President that following the storm Austin, Travis, Hays and Williamson counties each issued disaster declarations. As of now, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is evaluating the funding request.

The representatives stated that they looked forward to working with the President and local officials to do what needed to be done to push the funding forward.

San Marcos Record

(512) 392-2458
P.O. Box 1109, San Marcos, TX 78666