Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14), along with other bipartisan Florida delegation members, sent a letter to President Biden calling for a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida as Hurricane Ian made landfall. A Major Disaster Declaration would significantly expand the federal aid available to the state in order to support response and recovery, including in the Tampa Bay area. 

The full text of the letter is below. 

Dear Mr. President:

We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Ian, which is currently causing catastrophic conditions as a Category 4 major hurricane. Hurricane Ian’s historic size, sustained winds and dangerously slow pace, which stand to affect virtually the entire state, will produce significant flooding, massive power outages and widespread damage throughout Florida. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all of Florida’s 67 counties.

This historic hurricane will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for days. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will provide the assistance necessary for our constituents to recover and rebuild. 

Floridians are incredibly resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,