Syracuse Sun

Representatives Brandon Williams (NY-22), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), and Elise Stefanik (NY-21) have sent a joint letter to President Biden supporting Governor Hochul’s request for a Presidential Emergency Declaration for New York State.

On July 15th and 16th, severe weather affected fifteen New York counties, causing over 400,000 power outages due to downed trees and power lines. An EF-2 tornado struck downtown Rome, causing significant infrastructure damage. Additionally, EF-1 tornadoes were confirmed in Hamilton County, Herkimer County, Saratoga County, and Madison County, where one Canastota resident died. An EF-0 tornado also touched down in Warren County.

“We support the State of Emergency that was declared for all of New York State by Governor Hochul as a result of this devastation. The Governor has designated the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, New York State Police, Division of Military and Naval Affairs, and the Department of Health as response agencies. We support their efforts to provide much-needed resources to our constituents,” the letter reads.

Governor Hochul’s request includes financial assistance for eligible Category A and B expenses under FEMA’s Public Assistance program for activities such as debris removal, sheltering, evacuations, search and rescue, among others. The request also seeks to waive the $5 million limitation on assistance imposed by the Stafford Act.

“It is more important now than ever that we come together across levels of government to respond to the disaster that has struck our communities. A Presidential Emergency Declaration would greatly aid ongoing efforts to provide relief to constituents who have been impacted,” said Congressman Brandon Williams.

"The severe weather we experienced in July caused significant damage and hardship for countless New Yorkers," stated Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. "President Biden must promptly declare a state of emergency for New York."

“After the devastating storms that swept across Upstate New York earlier this month,” noted Congressman Paul Tonko,“I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting Governor Hochul’s request.”

“As Western New York recovers from the tornadoes that tore apart homes,” commented Congressman Nick Langworthy,“I will continue to work with my colleagues at all levels of government.”

“My office has worked diligently to provide our Upstate New York communities with resources,” added Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.“I am now calling on the Biden-Harris Administration to issue a Presidential Emergency Declaration.”