Kennedy urges Pres. Biden to approve expedited major disaster declaration for Hurricane Francine

MADISONVILLE, La. - Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Reps. Steve Scalise (R-La.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Julia Letlow (R-La.), Garret Graves (R-La.) and Troy Carter (D-La.) in requesting that President Joe Biden approve an expedited major disaster declaration in response to Hurricane Francine, which made landfall in Louisiana on September 11, 2024.

"As you know, Hurricane Francine formed as a Tropical Storm in the Gulf of Mexico on September 9, 2024, before intensifying and making landfall as a Category 2 hurricane. The storm brought heavy rainfall, a life-threatening storm surge, and sustained winds of 100 mph. Hurricane Francine continued north, bringing heavy winds and rain to communities across the state. It has caused widespread damage that necessitates assistance from the federal government," the lawmakers wrote.

"Specifically, Governor Landry has requested Individual and Public Assistance for the following parishes: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, and West Baton Rouge. Additionally, Governor Landry has requested statewide assistance for Hazard Mitigation, and a 100% federal cost share for Categories A and B for 30 days," they continued.

"We ask for your swift consideration and approval of an expedited major disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana. These resources are necessary as we begin the recovery process," the lawmakers concluded.

The full letter is available here.