WASHINGTON, DC – The Indiana congressional delegation today sent a letter to President Barack Obama expressing strong support for Governor Mitch Daniels' request that the administration provide Public Assistance to five counties in southern Indiana impacted by the recent severe tornadoes and storms. Yesterday the governor asked that a Major Disaster Area Declaration be declared for Clark, Jefferson, Scott, Ripley and Washington counties.

In the letter, the members state, "After surveying the damage and consulting with state and local government officials, it is clear the recovery is beyond the combined capabilities and resources of the State of Indiana.

"Governor Daniels is requesting federal public assistance for Clark, Jefferson, Ripley, Scott, and Washington counties. These counties in particular need heightened assistance to cover the cost of debris removal, emergency services related to the disaster and repairing or replacing damaged public facilities, such as roads, buildings, and utilities."

The full text of the letter follows:

The Honorable Barack Obama

President of the United States

The White House

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Mr. President:

We are writing to express our strong support for Governor Mitch Daniels’ request for federal public assistance for five counties in the State of Indiana that were especially devastated following the tornadoes and severe storms that hit Southern Indiana from February 29 to March 3, 2012.
 
The disastrous weather caused extensive damage to public and private property throughout Southern Indiana. After surveying the damage and consulting with state and local government officials, it is clear the recovery is beyond the combined capabilities and resources of the State of Indiana. Governor Daniels is requesting federal public assistance for Clark, Jefferson, Ripley, Scott, and Washington counties. These counties in particular need heightened assistance to cover the cost of debris removal, emergency services related to the disaster and repairing or replacing damaged public facilities, such as roads, buildings, and utilities.
 
As we previously wrote, Hoosiers have a long history of triumphing over tragedy and believe timely federal assistance will significantly assist Indiana’s recovery efforts. We respectfully request you give careful consideration to Governor Daniels’ request.
 
Thank you for your immediate attention to our previous request and for your continued consideration of this important matter.
                                                          
In service,
Richard Lugar                                              
United States Senator

Dan Coats                                                                             
United States Senator

Todd Young
Member of Congress
Dan Burton    
Member of Congress             
Pete Visclosky
Member of Congress             
Mike Pence    
Member of Congress             
Joe Donnelly
Member of Congress
André Carson
Member of Congress
Larry Bucshon
Member of Congress
Todd Rokita
Member of Congress
Marlin Stutzman
Member of Congress

###