Duval Times

Today, Senator Rick Scott visited Lithia to discuss the response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Milton. He met with Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, County Administrator Bonnie Wise, Fire Chief Jason Dougherty, and other local emergency management leaders. The senator has been in regular contact with federal officials and local leaders to ensure that affected communities have the necessary resources for recovery.

Senator Scott urged those needing assistance from federal agencies like FEMA or the SBA to reach out to his office. "Tampa and surrounding communities, like Lithia, have been absolutely devastated by flooding as the Alafia River continues to rise," said Senator Scott. He mentioned his discussions with President Biden about ensuring support for local and state governments and emphasized the need for full funding of FEMA, SBA, HUD, and USDA for disaster recovery.

He also called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to reconvene the Senate after damage assessments are completed to fully fund disaster response efforts through a supplemental appropriations bill. "Floridians are strong, we are resilient. We will recover and rebuild even stronger," he added.

Prior to Hurricane Milton's landfall, Senator Scott was in communication with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) for updates and traveled along Florida's Gulf Coast to receive reports from sheriffs and emergency management officials. He worked closely with state leaders and federal officials like FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to secure federal resources for Florida.

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio wrote letters to President Joe Biden supporting Florida's emergency declaration requests before Hurricane Milton hit. These requests were approved by President Biden after receiving the senators' letters. They also urged federal agencies to expedite plans addressing potential obstructions at Tampa Bay's port.

Senator Scott encourages Floridians seeking information or assistance with federal agencies post-hurricanes Milton and Helene to visit his website or learn more about Florida's Emergency Management Division efforts.