Congressman Cohen Urges Governor Lee to Request FEMA Assistance

WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today wrote to Governor Bill Lee urging him again to seek assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in response to the damage done by storms on Saturday, August 22. The Congressman wrote to Lee on August 24 making the same request.

In his letter today, Congressman wrote in part:

"I am writing to follow up on my earlier letter urging you to request assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Shelby County in response to the severe storms that struck Memphis and Shelby County on Saturday, August 22. Since my previous correspondence, conditions on the ground have continued to demonstrate the urgent need for additional support.

"The storm caused extensive damage to homes, public infrastructure, and utility systems, leading to prolonged power outages and significant disruptions to essential services. Memphis Light Gas & Water (MLGW) reported power outages to 148,000 customers. As many as 11,000 customers were without power through Wednesday, August 26. Restoration crews, including both local personnel and external support teams, are working tirelessly, but the scale of tree damage, downed lines, and infrastructural impact has made recovery efforts especially challenging.

"As of August 31, the Shelby County Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has reported over $19 million in recorded damages. Given the severity of the damage and the continued burden on critical services, prompt action is necessary to ensure access to all available federal resources that can support recovery and stabilization.

"I respectfully reiterate my request that you seek the appropriate federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. I stand ready to support this effort in any way needed."

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