Congressman Bishop Asks President Bush for Disaster Assistance
WASHINGTON, D.C. In the wake of hurricanes Francis and Ivan Congressman Sanford Bishop joined Governor Perdue and Members of Congress in asking President Bush for an expedited major disaster declaration for the State of Georgia. If granted, Georgians impacted by the hurricanes will be eligible for federal assistance.
“Federal assistance will be essential to helping Georgians get back on their feet. While federal agencies are working with local governments on the ground to assess damages, we need the funding to turn things around,” said Congressman Bishop. “Georgians have been hit hard this month and I am hopeful that the President will grant our request.”
Georgia is requesting 100 percent direct federal assistance, debris removal, and emergency protective measures for the first 72 hours, as well as implementation of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program for the entire state.
If and when this request is approved, FEMA will make a toll-free number available for Georgians to call and register for assistance. The letter to President Bush is attached below.
The Hon. George W. Bush
The President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20050
Dear Mr. President:
Today a letter was transmitted to your office from Governor Sonny Perdue requesting that you declare a Major Declaration for the State of Georgia as a result of the direct impacts of Hurricane Ivan. We are writing in support of Governor Perdue’s request, and to ask that you look favorably upon it.
Hurricane Ivan’s torrential downpours and tropical storm force winds caused widespread power outages, leaving nearly 250,000 people without power in the Metro Atlanta area alone. Ivan has also resulted in significant flooding along Peachtree Creek, the Chattahoochee River at Vinings, and the Etowah River in Dawsonville and Canton. In Dekalb County, one neighborhood received up to 5 feet of floodwaters. The rainfall associated with Hurricane Ivan, and the expected track of Hurricane Jeanne, willr esult in more flooding throughout our state.
Governor Perdue has outlined in his letter to you the specifics of the damage to our State, and the need for immediate federal disaster relief aid. For your reference we are attaching a copy of that letter. We appreciate your leadership in this area, and your prompt attention to our State’s request. As always, we stand ready to assist you in any way possible in this matter.