Hoyer Joins Members of Maryland Delegation In Requesting Major Disaster Declaration For Baltimore

Press Release

Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) joined with U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski, and members of Maryland's Congressional Delegation today in sending a letter to President Barack Obama supporting Governor Hogan's request for a declaration of a major disaster for Baltimore following recent unrest in the city. If awarded, Maryland will become eligible for federal disaster recovery dollars through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), ensuring the state's already strained budget is not stretched any thinner. The letter was signed by Rep. Hoyer, Senators Mikulski and Cardin, as well as U.S. Representatives Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.), John P. Sarbanes (D-Md.), Donna F. Edwards (D-Md.) and John Delaney (D-Md.).

"Following the tragic death of Freddie Gray, citizens of Baltimore reacted with outrage in their demands for truth and their demands for justice," the Members wrote. "For seven days, from April 25, 2015 through May 1, 2015, the City of Baltimore experienced civil unrest... Maryland and its local jurisdictions have contributed a vast amount of resources, which will continue to have economic impacts around our state. A Major Disaster declaration is necessary to help provide the resources needed by all."

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