Following repeated calls for assistance in the wake of devastating floods that rocked communities across the Hudson Valley, Congressmen Mike Lawler announced today that President Biden has approved Governor Hochul’s request for a major disaster declaration releasing critical federal assistance for Rockland, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties.
“Today’s approval of disaster assistance for Rockland, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties will release much needed relief to help these communities recover,” said Congressman Lawler. “However, portions of Westchester County, including Yorktown which I visited with local officials after the storm passed, were absolutely devastated and are also in need of federal assistance. Additionally, many residents and businesses remain in limbo as they await federal assistance. I ask that the Biden Administration move expeditiously on any and all outstanding requests.”
“On July 10th, I surveyed impacted areas across the Hudson Valley with state, local, and federal officials. It was immediately clear that the damage from the weekend’s storms was massive and would be in the tens of millions of dollars,” continued Congressman Lawler. Since that time, I have been emphatic in calling for the Governor to request a major disaster declaration and for the President to swiftly approve such a request for all four of the 17th District’s counties.”
“I will continue working with my colleagues in Washington as well as the state and local officials on the ground as I have been since the storms hit. We must ensure our communities get all the resources they need to recover and rebuild,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “I thank Governor Hochul and President Biden for the major disaster declaration and ask that they continue working with residents, small business owners, and partners at the federal, state, and local level to ensure all necessary funds are secured for those who require it.”