Duval Times

HIALEAH, Fla. – Senator Rick Scott visited Hialeah today to host a press conference as part of his Hurricane Preparedness Tour. He was joined by Congressman Carlos Gimenez, Commissioner Kevin M. Cabrera, and local leaders. This week, Senator Scott is traveling across the state to urge Florida families to prepare for the 2024 Hurricane Season, which begins on Saturday, June 1.

Throughout the week, Senator Scott will continue his travels around Florida to emphasize hurricane preparedness and meet with local elected leaders, law enforcement, emergency management officials, and business owners. Yesterday, he visited Mexico Beach in Florida’s panhandle and St. Pete Beach to kick off his statewide tour.

Senator Scott has been advocating for Washington's support for Floridians still recovering from past storms and ensuring readiness for future disasters. Earlier this month, he sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell expressing concerns about the impending exhaustion of the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). The letter follows reports that FEMA expects the DRF to run out of funds by August 2024 and may need immediate needs funding as early as June.

“With the 2024 Hurricane Season beginning soon, I am traveling around Florida to send one very clear message: now is the time for every family to make a plan and get prepared,” said Senator Scott. “In previous hurricane seasons, we saw terrible devastation and flooding in communities across Florida. I know so many families are still working to recover and get back to their homes and businesses."

He added: "Previous hurricanes have taught us that severe weather can approach and change course so quickly—we saw that with Ian, Michael, and Irma. Some of our communities got lucky with these storms, but you can’t count on that again. You have to take this seriously."

Scott emphasized the importance of being prepared even without a direct hit: “Even without a direct hit, communities still see massive flooding, road closures and storm surge. There’s no reason ANY of us should take the risk of being complacent and unprepared.”

He also highlighted an opportunity for families: “Now is a great opportunity for you and your family to stock your disaster supply kits with vital supplies like a first aid kit, a radio, flashlights, batteries, and other necessities—and you can buy hurricane supplies sales-tax-free from June 1st through June 14th."

Senator Scott concluded by urging immediate action: “As I always say, you can rebuild your home but you can’t rebuild your life. Don’t put your family and loved ones at risk. Don’t wait to take action. Get prepared today.”

Florida families and businesses are encouraged to visit www.rickscott.senate.gov/hurricane-preparedness for resources on making disaster preparedness plans.

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