Letters

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February 22, 2021

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500

President Biden:

Last week, many of us wrote to you requesting swift approval of Governor Abbott’s Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Texas and we thank you for your quick action in response. However, we fear that your initial Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declaration falls far short of the actual needs of our state and request the immediate approval of all 254 Texas counties for Individual Assistance.

The services provided by FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs are essential to helping states and communities recover from disasters. Although the initial effects of this unprecedented winter storm are beginning to dissipate, the entire state continues to reel from the aftermath that has left millions without power, potable water, and dwindled food supplies.

These continued challenges are impacting Texans from all background and ways of life. While the full assessment of the damage may not be known for many days or weeks, the current estimates are in the excess of $62 million. Given the magnitude, severity, and duration of the historic winter storm, it is assured the actual damage will far surpass the resources of our local communities.

The continued delay of FEMA Individual Assistance to all 254 counties, in the State of Texas, will only prolong the suffering of millions of Americans. Therefore, we respectfully request that you expeditiously approve this federal assistance for all Texas counties.

Sincerely,