Duval Times

Today, Senator Rick Scott visited Venice in Sarasota County to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Accompanied by Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman, Scott took an aerial tour of the affected areas and received a briefing from local emergency management officials on response and recovery efforts.

Senator Scott has been in regular contact with federal officials, local leaders, law enforcement, and emergency management personnel across Florida to ensure that resources are available for storm response and recovery. He urged those needing assistance from federal agencies like FEMA or the SBA to reach out to his office.

"Sarasota County has experienced a severe amount of storm surge that has impacted folks throughout the county," said Senator Scott. "Major flooding is still prevalent in the area as we wait for the water to recede, so please be sure to listen to your local officials and stay safe."

Scott expressed gratitude for the work of law enforcement, National Guard members, emergency management officials, and first responders. He emphasized his commitment to supporting Floridians through their recovery process.

"Floridians are resilient," he said. "While so many families are facing unimaginable loss, I will stand alongside them every step of the way as they recover."

In preparation for Hurricane Helene's landfall, Senator Scott had daily calls with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and received updates from FEMA. He also received briefings from officials in several counties including Bay, Franklin, Taylor, and Levy Counties.

Following a letter from Senators Scott and Marco Rubio urging President Joe Biden's immediate approval of a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida, President Biden approved the request on Saturday night. This follows last week's approval of a pre-landfall emergency declaration for potentially impacted counties at Senators Scott and Rubio's request.

Senator Scott encourages any Floridians needing assistance with federal agencies during their recovery efforts to contact his office or visit www.rickscott.senate.gov/hurricane-season-resources for more information.