Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott visited Punta Gorda, Florida, to receive a briefing on the response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Milton. The briefing was conducted by local leaders including Mayor Lynne Matthews, Police Chief Pam Smith, Fire Chief Holden Gibbs, and other emergency management officials. Senator Scott has maintained communication with federal and local authorities to ensure necessary resources are available for communities affected by the hurricane.

"The number one thing I want to reiterate today for families in Punta Gorda and across the state is that everyone must stay vigilant and stay safe," said Senator Scott. He emphasized the importance of avoiding risks post-storm and mentioned his discussions with President Biden about ensuring agencies like FEMA, SBA, HUD, and USDA are adequately funded. "We need to have boots on the ground until Florida is fully recovered," he added.

Senator Scott also called for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to reconvene the Senate once damage assessments are completed by FEMA and SBA to secure funding through a disaster supplemental appropriations bill. He stressed the necessity of delivering disaster aid swiftly.

"Although the storm has passed, please remember that there are lots of hazards that can pose danger to you and your home," he cautioned residents. He urged them to heed advice from law enforcement regarding safety measures such as avoiding downed power lines and using generators indoors.

In preparation for Hurricane Milton's landfall, Senator Scott had been in regular contact with state leaders and emergency officials along Florida’s Gulf Coast. His communications included talks with FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaanand and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Additionally, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio wrote letters to President Joe Biden supporting pre-landfall emergency declarations for Florida which were approved promptly. They also urged federal action at Port Tampa Bay due to its critical role in receiving petroleum products essential for Florida's economy.

Senator Scott advised Floridians seeking assistance with federal agencies or more information on recovery efforts to visit his website or consult resources provided by the Florida Division of Emergency Management.