Missouri lawmakers urge President to declare federal disaster after severe weather

WASHINGTON (KBSI) — A bipartisan group of Missouri lawmakers, led by Representative Jason Smith, R-MO, and Representative Wesley Bell, D-MO, are urging President Donald Trump to declare a federal disaster in 28 counties affected by recent severe weather.

In a letter to the president, the lawmakers requested immediate authorization of federal assistance to support recovery efforts in Missouri, which was hit by violent tornadoes and widespread flooding on March 14-15.

“The devastation in Missouri is heartbreaking, and many communities are struggling to get back on their feet,” Smith said. “We applaud Governor Mike Kehoe’s swift action to declare a state of emergency and urge the federal government to follow suit.”

The request for federal aid was signed by Senators Josh Hawley, R-MO, and Eric Schmitt, R-MO, as well as Representatives Ann Wagner, R-MO, Sam Graves, R-MO, Mark Alford, R-MO, Eric Burlison, R-MO, Emmanuel Cleaver, D-MO, and Bob Onder, no party affiliation listed.
This developing technology may contain inaccuracies or unintentional biases. Please check authoritative sources for election-related information. Learn more