March 10, 2012

Manchin Urges Quick Review and Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for W.Va.

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) sent a letter to President Barack Obama today and urged the Administration to quickly review and approve Governor Earl Ray Tomblin's request for the declaration of a major disaster for the state of West Virginia. Senator Manchin spent this week and weekend receiving briefings and touring storm damage in Marion, Lincoln and Wayne counties. 

Additional counties in West Virginia that experienced severe damage include Doddridge, Harrison, Monongalia, Preston, Ritchie, Roane and Taylor. Among the severe weather was tornadoes, flooding, mudslides and falling trees. 

“After touring the devastated areas this week, I was struck by the hope and perseverance in the aftermath of great destruction.  Although the survivors of this horrific weather event are showing great optimism, it is apparent to me that residents and local leaders, who are now tasked with rebuilding in the storm’s wake, require resources beyond what local and state governments are equipped to provide,” Senator Manchin wrote in the letter. 

“To access federal disaster aid, Governor Earl Ray Tomblin made a request for a declaration of major disaster for the State of West Virginia... I respectfully request that you review his request as quickly as possible and give the request every appropriate consideration. The West Virginians who are suffering from this natural disaster are already working hard with their communities to rebuild, and now is the time for the federal government to be their partner.”

A full copy of the letter is attached. 

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