Senator John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has joined other members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation to support Governor Jeff Landry’s request for a major disaster declaration. The request follows a severe winter storm that caused significant damage in several Louisiana parishes.
Governor Landry addressed President Donald Trump and acting FEMA Regional Director Arsany Thomas in a letter, asking for public assistance for Bienville, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, and West Carroll Parishes. He cited problems including ice accumulation, power and water outages, debris, and nine deaths resulting from the storm. The state has already incurred $11.4 million in costs responding to the storm.
“Due to the devastating impacts in these parishes, which includes widespread ice accumulations and debris, I am requesting snow assistance and an increased federal cost share of 100% for 30 days. I am also requesting Hazard Mitigation Assistance for the listed parishes to fund projects that will increase their resilience from future winter weather threats,” wrote Landry.
Kennedy was joined by Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), and Representatives Clay Higgins (R-La.), Julia Letlow (R-La.), Cleo Fields (D-La.), and Troy Carter (D-La.) in sending another letter to President Trump supporting Landry’s request.
“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.
Senator Kennedy represents all of Louisiana in the United States Senate with offices across the state to support constituents on federal issues. He leads the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs and participates in committees focused on appropriations, budget matters, energy, and natural resources. Kennedy is also known for his work advancing initiatives that support veterans, farmers, small businesses and national security while engaging with residents through public events and newsletters as detailed on his official website.
