Letter to Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr., President of the United States - Pfluger Leads Texans Calling for President Biden to Approve Governor Abbott's Disaster Declaration

Letter

President Biden:
We are grateful for your quick response to approve an initial disaster declaration for the state of
Texas earlier this week. We write today to respectfully request that you move swiftly to approve
the major disaster declaration issued by Governor Abbott last night.
Our home state has been battered by unprecedented winter weather that has affected all 254
counties in Texas, overwhelmed the power grid, and crippled our roadways. The historic impacts
of winter precipitation and artic temperatures have left millions of Texans without power,
potable water, and have strained the supply chain for food and other necessities.
The effects of the storm have been felt across the state in urban and rural areas alike. Due to
extended frigid temperatures and dwindling feed supplies, livestock producers anticipate
devastating losses to their herds. In addition, citrus and other specialty crops are anticipated to
incur major losses with potential lingering impacts on other essential commodities.
The State of Texas has mobilized a whole-of-government response to the weather events to
ensure continuation of essential services and provide relief. Early estimations show damages are
in excess of $27 million with many local jurisdictions unable to provide full damage assessments
due to ongoing weather conditions. This total is expected to grow exponentially and surpass the
necessary threshold.
Again, we request that you move quickly to approve the major disaster declaration and avoid
delay that could hamper ongoing recovery efforts in the state and alleviate suffering.
Sincerely,