Today U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) joined U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and U.S. Senator Rand Paul in signing a urging him to approve Governor Steve Beshear's request for a major disaster declaration as a result of the severe storms, flooding, strong winds and tornadoes beginning on June 19, 2011 and continuing in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

"The deadly storms and high waters that ripped through our region have left families devastated and communities searching for ways to keep up with the staggering debris removal and repair costs," said Rogers. "It is vital that this request be approved in order for our rural communities to recover and rebuild. My thoughts and prayers remain with the families whose homes and businesses were devastated by flood waters, but I’m proud of the many first responders and even neighbors who worked diligently to rescue flood victims across southern and eastern Kentucky, including three trapped coal miners in Bell County. Their bravery reflects the steeled nature of our people and I applaud all of those who dedicated hours on the ground to ensure their safe return to their families. Every business and individual who donated cleaning supplies, heavy equipment, volunteer hours, food and the like to enhance the recovery process is to be commended for your selfless acts of kindness in a time of great despair."

The federal disaster declaration specifically requests the following:
Individual Assistance for Bell, Breathitt, Knox, Lee, and Perry Counties;
Public Assistance for Bell, Breathitt, Knox, Lee, Magoffin, and Perry Counties;
Hazard Mitigation for the entire Commonwealth.
The Governor further requested Public Assistance (Categories C-G) at 100 percent Federal funding.

The letter to President Obama reads:

The Honorable Barack Obama
The President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500-0005

Dear President Obama:

We are writing to bring to your attention a letter from Governor Steve Beshear requesting a major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We respectfully urge you to give this request the timely and serious consideration that it deserves.

On June 19, 2011, devastating storms and flooding again swept through the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As a result, seven (7) counties in Southeastern Kentucky suffered extensive damage from the severe storms and flash flooding. The Governor has already issued a disaster declaration for these counties under state law and is now requesting federal assistance.

As the Governor conveyed in his letter, the Commonwealth has surpassed the $5.2 million expenditure threshold required for consideration of federal disaster assistance in accordance with provisions of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Timely and serious consideration of the Governor’s disaster declaration request on your part would aid Kentucky communities so severely affected by this most recent disaster.

Thank you in advance for your prompt action on this matter. Should you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact our offices.

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To view photos of the flooded region documented by Rogers' field representatives, visit http://www.halrogers.house.gov/photos and click on the album labeled 'Regional Photos'.

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.

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