Blumenthal Statement on Federal Emergency Disaster Declaration

[HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal released a statement today after President Joe Biden announced an emergency disaster declaration for Connecticut following Sunday’s severe flooding.

“President Biden’s emergency disaster declaration is a strong step toward bringing federal aid to Connecticut following this weekend’s storms. It allows Connecticut state agencies to work with federal partners like FEMA to continue recovery efforts, and potentially unlock more federal assistance to repair and rebuild damaged infrastructure. I am grateful to the Biden Administration for their swift response to Governor Lamont and our delegation’s request,” Blumenthal said.

On August 18, parts of Connecticut received up to 16 inches of rain in just a few hours. The floodwaters caused significant damage to critical infrastructure like roads, rail lines, and bridges, devastated local businesses and homes, trapped residents in their homes and forced others to evacuate, and tragically killed two people.

Governor Ned Lamont on Tuesday requested a federal emergency declaration under Section 501 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act on August 20, 2024, to assist with debris removal and emergency protective measures in New Haven, Fairfield, and Litchfield Counties. A federal disaster declaration is necessary in order to provide direct federal assistance to the affected communities.

Blumenthal led the Connecticut Congressional delegation in a letter yesterday to President Biden urging swift action from the federal government so that Connecticut can continue recovery and rebuilding efforts. 

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