Kennedy urges Pres. Biden to approve Louisiana emergency declaration ahead of Francine’s landfall

WASHINGTON - Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today 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 urging President Joe Biden to quickly review and approve Louisiana's emergency declaration request in order to provide timely federal assistance to communities impacted by storm Francine.

"In anticipation of landfall as a potential Category 2 hurricane, Governor Landry has requested emergency protective measures (Category B) and direct federal assistance under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The expected impact of this storm requires federal assistance to supplement state and local government response," the lawmakers wrote.

"The National Weather Service anticipates that Hurricane Francine will bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and a life-threatening storm surge to Louisiana communities. On September 9, 2024, Governor Landry declared a statewide emergency and directed the execution of the State's Emergency Operations Plan. The State of Louisiana has further determined that this storm is of such magnitude that federal assistance is needed to protect our communities," they continued.

"We urge you to quickly review and approve the emergency declaration request and coordinate federal assistance. Thank you for your attention to this important matter," the lawmakers concluded.

The full letter is available here.