The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has denied Texas Governor Rick Perry’s request for a major disaster declaration for West, Texas, following the fertilizer plant explosion on April 17.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has denied Texas Governor Rick Perry’s request for a major disaster declaration for West, Texas, following the fertilizer plant explosion on April 17. Congressman Bill Flores (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding FEMA’s denial of additional assistance:
“The news of this decision comes as a surprise and I am greatly disappointed. The tragic explosion in West injured hundreds, caused tens of millions of dollars in damage and took 15 lives, including 12 first responders. During the memorial service for the fallen first responders, President Obama himself said ‘your country will remain ever ready to help you recover, and rebuild, and reclaim your community’. Following that service, Governor Perry, Senator Cruz and I met backstage with the president, and he again assured us that the federal government would help West rebuild. We must hold the president to his word to help the community of West.
“I believe that Governor Perry’s request met the thresholds to receive major disaster declaration and open up the benefits needed to aid in the recovery of West. I will continue to work with the Governor, as well as with the rest of the Texas congressional delegation, as we move forward with the process to get the declaration needed to provide the support that the community is entitled to under the Stafford Act.”
Congressman Bill Flores represents the 17th District of Texas and is an entrepreneur, former energy executive, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and member of the House Budget, Natural Resources and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.
