Buchanan, Hastings, Rubio, Scott Lead Florida Delegation in Urging POTUS to Approve Emergency Declaration Ahead of Hurricane Dorian

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31 -- Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Florida, issued the following news release:

Congressmen Vern Buchanan and Alcee Hastings and U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott Thursday led the entire Florida congressional delegation in urging President Trump to approve Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration ahead of Hurricane Dorian. If approved, the declaration would provide important resources and assistance needed to prepare and respond to the powerful hurricane, which is projected to potentially make landfall as a category 4 storm.

Buchanan advised Floridians and his constituents to visit the Hurricane Preparedness page on his website at buchanan.house.gov/resources/hurricanes. Visitors to the site will find useful information on how to prepare themselves and their property for a hurricane, what to do in the event of an evacuation, a list of recommended items to include in an emergency supply kit and links to state and federal resources.

Buchanan also urged Floridians to check their flood insurance coverage and develop a contingency plan for their homes and businesses as early as possible.

The full text of the letter is below.

Dear Mr. President:

We write in complete support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration in expectation of Hurricane Dorian. The current forecast predicts the storm will impact Florida communities. We request you promptly approve Florida's request to guarantee the distribution of all necessary federal resources.

Florida is no stranger to major storms, especially within the last three years in which the state was hit by Hurricanes Michael, Irma, Hermine, and Matthew. As Floridians continue to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of these previous storms, federal resources are paramount to ensuring an effective response to Hurricane Dorian. Preparation has proven to be critical in protecting property and the public health and safety of potential victims of a major storm. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida's request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration that will provide the assistance necessary to ensure the safety of Floridians.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and we look forward to working with your administration to ensure Florida is well-equipped to respond in the aftermath of this potentially devastating hurricane.

Sincerely,