WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Neal Dunn (Florida-02) sent a letter to President Biden supporting Governor DeSantis’ request for an expedited Major Disaster Declaration to help communities respond to Hurricane Helene. This designation will trigger the release of Federal funds essential to helping affected people and communities recover from the storm. Congressman Dunn was joined by the entire Florida Delegation in his letter to President Biden.

“After a storm as powerful and devastating as Helene, it is imperative to mobilize Federal resources quickly to respond to the fallout,” said Congressman Dunn. “Federal assistance is absolutely essential to ensure every community impacted by Helene has the resources they need to respond to the fallout. I’m urging President Biden to heed Governor DeSantis’ request without delay and issue a Major Disaster Declaration promptly.”

“Floridians are resilient and will continue to meet the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene head-on, but robust action by all levels of government is needed,” said Congressman Bean. “This historic weather event caused significant damage to our state, and I urge President Biden to approve Governor DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration without delay, so we can deliver the critical federal support necessary for families, businesses and our communities to rebuild and recover.”

On Tuesday, September 24^th, Congressman Dunn sent a letter to President Biden requesting a Pre-Landfall Emergency Declaration ahead of the storm, including a request for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B). On Wednesday, President Biden approved the emergency declaration. However, this declaration fell short of authorizing the full Category A protective measures.

Read the full text of Congressman Dunn’s letter to President Biden here.