U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), along with the entire Louisiana congressional delegation, has voiced support for Governor Jeff Landry’s request for an expedited federal Major Disaster declaration following Winter Storm Fern. The storm affected Louisiana from January 23 to 27, 2026, resulting in significant power outages, road closures, and water system disruptions in northern parts of the state.
“The storm brought icy precipitation and extremely cold temperatures throughout most of Louisiana with the northern parishes experiencing widespread power and water outages,” wrote the members.
“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,” continued the members.
Senator Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representatives Mike Johnson (R-LA), Steve Scalise (R-LA), Troy Carter (D-LA), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Julia Letlow (R-LA), and Cleo Fields (D-LA) in signing a letter addressed to President Trump.
The letter detailed that Governor Landry is seeking Public Assistance, including direct federal aid, snow assistance, and Hazard Mitigation for several parishes: Bienville, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, and West Carroll. A request was also made for a 100 percent cost share adjustment over a 30-day period due to the state incurring more than $11 million in damages—surpassing the threshold required for a Disaster Declaration.
According to the delegation’s letter: “Power outages interrupted service to hospitals and nursing homes, forcing them to operate on generators, and caused extended school and business closures. 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 also urged that Individual Assistance be included in any federal declaration since preliminary assessments suggest eligibility in affected parishes. They noted that the Small Business Administration is offering Economic Injury Disaster Loans in 19 of Louisiana’s parishes as a result of this storm.
Senator Cassidy has represented Louisiana in the U.S. Senate since his election in 2014 after previously serving in both the U.S. House of Representatives for Louisiana’s 6th Congressional District beginning in 2008 and earlier terms in the Louisiana State Senate [source]. He obtained his undergraduate and medical degrees from Louisiana State University [source] and currently serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions [source].
