Rep. Valadao: POTUS Answers Congressional Request, Issues Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif., issued the following news release:

This morning, President Donald J. Trump issued a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of California in response to bipartisan request from Congress.

Following a storm system which occurred in California between January 18 and January 23, this past Friday, U.S. Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-21) led a bipartisan letter requesting President Trump declare a Presidential Declaration of Major Disaster for certain affected areas in the State of California.

The letter, which can be read in its entirety here (https://valadao.house.gov/uploadedfiles/2017.03.10_-_potus_regarding_disacter_declaration_1.18-1.23.pdf), explains recent heavy, continuous rainfall did not allow rivers, creeks, and streams sufficient time to return to lower levels before acquiring more water.

In February, Governor Brown proclaimed a state of emergency for sixteen counties, including Kern County located in California's 21st Congressional District. The Presidential Disaster Declaration will immediately provide federal aid to help impacted communities recover from the severe winter storms, flooding, and mudslides.

Following the Major Disaster Declaration notification from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Congressman Valadao stated, "After years of the worst drought in California's recorded history, this winter brought a string of storms, and with it, a significant amount of precipitation. The substantial increases in rain and snowfall have further burdened our states already strained water infrastructure." He continued, "Ensuring those communities impacted have the resources they need to clean up, rebuild, and make infrastructure repairs is absolutely critical and I appreciate the quick response by this Administration."

Congressman David G. Valadao represents the 21st Congressional District, which includes Kings County and portions of Fresno, Tulare, and Kern Counties.

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