WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren announced today his effort to continue adding affected communities to Governor Brad Henry’s major disaster declaration. The first round of federal assistance approved by President Bush did not include coverage for all requested and affected counties.
“I want to assure constituents in Nowata County that they will be part of a follow-up request to add additional counties to the declaration,” Boren said. “This is one of the worst floods eastern Oklahoma has ever seen, and I am committed to making sure everyone affected is getting the assistance they need.”
On July 5, Gov. Brad Henry submitted a request for a major disaster declaration. Boren immediately sent a letter to the White House and was successful in expediting the review and approval for assistance. The letter also clearly outlined the need for approval of any additional counties that are added to the request at a later date. As damage assessments continue and more requests are made by the state for additional counties, Boren stands ready to work for speedy approval from the White House.
Boren is encouraging flood victims in Nowata County to call FEMA to report their losses at 1-800-621-FEMA.
“It is vital that Nowata County residents that have flood damage contact FEMA to help build the state’s case for additional assistance,” Boren said. “In the event that Nowata County is added to the declaration, this information will help get assistance to county residents as soon as possible.”
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