SHAHEEN STATEMENT ON NEW HAMPSHIRE DISASTER RELIEF

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement after New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan formally requested disaster relief for Cheshire, Grafton and Sullivan counties. The federal relief would be used to help repair damage due to severe storms and flooding that lasted from June 26^th through July 3^rd.

“The severe storms and flooding caused widespread damage across New Hampshire and our communities need help to repair damages.  We should get this assistance to the affected communities without delay. Our citizens must know that we are standing with them during these difficult times.”

Shaheen also sent a letter to the White House officially declaring her support for the Governor’s request. The text of that letter is included below.

July 16, 2013

President Barack Obama

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President:

I write in support of New Hampshire Governor Margaret Hassan’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration and emergency assistance for the State of New Hampshire following the damage caused by severe rain and flooding between June 26 and July 3.  The Governor’s request covers Cheshire, Sullivan and Grafton Counties.

During the period June 26 to July 3, significant rainfall resulted in extensive flooding and flash floods that damaged infrastructure in at least 14 communities.  In particular, this storm caused washouts on roads and culverts and landslides resulting in the closure of several major state roads, numerous local roads, and significant damage to a nonprofit affordable housing complex.  While Governor Hassan and New Hampshire state agencies responded quickly to minimize the storm’s impact on citizens, federal assistance is required to quickly meet the needs of the communities affected by this disaster.

I urge you to grant a Major Disaster Declaration for New Hampshire as soon as possible in order to ensure that our state’s businesses, towns and citizens have access to the resources and assistance they need to fully recover from this emergency.  Thank you for your consideration.