Kennedy thanks President Trump for approving Louisiana’s major disaster declaration request following winter storm

MADISONVILLE, La. - Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today applauded President Donald Trump and his administration for approving Louisiana's major disaster declaration request in the aftermath of a bruising winter storm.

"I'm incredibly grateful that President Trump and the Department of Homeland Security have Louisiana's back as we overcome the gut punch that Winter Storm Fern dealt our communities. This major disaster declaration will give our people a hand in covering key emergency work and repairs needed in the storm's wake," said Kennedy.

The declaration triggers the release of federal funds to assist in emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged facilities. It applies to Bienville, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas and West Carroll Parishes.

Kennedy previously joined all other members of the Louisiana congressional delegation in penning a letterbacking the request for a major disaster declaration.

"At its peak, the storm left over 175,000 residential customers without power. The ice shut down Interstate 20 and numerous state highways for several days. Widespread power outages and damage to water systems resulted in 32,487 customers completely without water. Up to 187,359 residents were placed under Boil Water Advisories," the lawmakers explained.

"We thank you for your swift emergency declaration for Louisiana issued on January 24 and eagerly await your response. We look forward to working with you to help the residents of these impacted communities during their time of need," they wrote.

View further information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on the major disaster declaration here.

View Louisiana's major disaster declaration request here.