Calls for quick federal action to approve request

For Immediate Release

Contact: Darlene Schlicher (615) 741-6336

NASHVILLE (December 2, 2019) – State Senator Kerry Roberts (R-Springfield) said today he is very pleased that Governor Bill Lee has submitted a Federal Disaster Declaration asking for help for Humphreys County and nine other Tennessee counties which were damaged by straight line winds on October 26^th due to the remains of Tropical Storm Olga.

“The people of Humphreys County took a devastating hit on October 26, 2019, from straight line winds approaching 100 mph,” said Sen. Roberts.  “Citizens, government, MLEC, and electric cooperatives from across the state worked tirelessly to clear debris and restore power, but the financial cost is enormous and putting a significant strain on budgets.  I heartily supported the Governor’s request for a federal disaster declaration in hopes of providing much-needed relief.”

A disaster declaration expedites the process for rebuilding, including costs for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and other needed repairs. It could also help qualifying individuals affected by the disaster with direct assistance.   Gov. Lee’s request specifically asks the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to make its Public Assistance (PA) Program available to those in need of direct assistance.

“Hopefully, we will receive a quick and positive response from the federal government so those who suffered damages will get the assistance they need to help them recover from the losses they have suffered,” Roberts concluded.

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