Flooding: Washington State Congressional Delegation Urges President Bush to Quickly Approve Governor’s Request for Federal Assistance

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, a unified Washington state Congressional delegation sent a letter to President George W. Bush urging him to quickly approve the federal assistance that Governor Chris Gregoire has requested. 

The text of the letter follows:

December 6, 2007 



President George W. Bush

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20500 



Dear Mr. President: 



We write to urge you to approve as quickly as possible the federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Chris Gregoire on December 6, 2007. 



As you know, on December 2, 2007, a very strong wind and rain storm swept through Washington state, causing heavy wind and water damage across much of Western Washington.  At least four people have lost their lives, and thousands of people must now try to repair the damage to their homes and businesses.  Major interstate traffic routes, including Interstate 5, the primary transportation artery between Seattle and Portland, have been closed due to widespread flooding.   



The many seriously-impacted counties and communities in Washington are responding well to this disaster, as is the state of Washington.  However, a disaster of this magnitude also requires federal assistance to help in the recovery effort.  We therefore urge you to approve a federal disaster declaration as soon as possible.   



Thank you in advance for your quick attention to this matter.

Sincerely,