Duval Times

Today, Senator Rick Scott, alongside Congressman Byron Donalds and State Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka, attended a briefing in Lee County. The meeting involved Sheriff Carmine Marceno, Lee County Public Safety Director Ben Abes, local law enforcement leaders, and emergency management officials. The focus was on preparation efforts for Major Hurricane Milton as it approaches Florida's Gulf Coast.

Senator Scott emphasized the urgency of evacuation if advised by local officials. "I have the same message for families in Lee County that I have given folks all along our Gulf Coast: if local officials ask you to evacuate, GET OUT IMMEDIATELY. You have to act tonight," he stated. He highlighted the potential severity of Hurricane Milton, which is expected to bring significant storm surge and flooding.

In collaboration with Senator Marco Rubio, Senator Scott sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting immediate approval of the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s pre-landfall emergency declaration request. This measure aims to ensure access to federal resources necessary for emergency response on tribal lands.

The senators also urged President Biden to expedite federal agency plans in response to potential disruptions at the Port of Tampa Bay due to the hurricane. Given that this port handles over 40 percent of Florida’s petroleum products, swift action is deemed crucial for protecting Florida's economy.

President Biden has already approved a pre-landfall emergency declaration for Florida at the urging of Senators Scott and Rubio. Recently, Senator Scott received briefings from various officials including Attorney General Ashley Moody and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor regarding preparation efforts in Hillsborough County.

Senator Scott advises Floridians to prepare by visiting his website for hurricane preparedness information and staying updated through official channels like the National Hurricane Center and the Florida Division of Emergency Management.