Duval Times

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have sent a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to approve the Seminole Tribe of Florida's request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration. This request comes as Major Hurricane Milton is expected to hit Florida, posing significant threats such as storm surge, high winds, and flooding.

The senators emphasized the importance of providing federal resources for emergency response on tribal lands. "Hurricane Milton is expected to bring damaging wind, rain, and flooding to Florida, including Seminole Tribal lands. Ensuring the Tribe has access to the federal resources needed for emergency response is imperative to protecting members of the tribe, their communities and property," they wrote.

In addition to this request, Senators Scott and Rubio have also urged President Biden to expedite plans with federal agencies in anticipation of potential disruptions at the Port of Tampa Bay due to Hurricane Milton. The port handles over 40 percent of Florida's petroleum products; hence swift federal action is deemed crucial for economic stability and recovery.

President Biden has already approved a pre-landfall emergency declaration for the State of Florida following similar requests from state officials. Senator Scott was recently joined by several state leaders at the Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center in Tampa for briefings on preparation efforts.

Scott continues to encourage Floridians to prepare through his website and other official channels. He also offers assistance for those recovering from previous storms like Hurricane Helene.