Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott joined President Joe Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm in St. Pete Beach to discuss the response to Hurricane Milton. The meeting aimed to address ongoing rescue and recovery operations. Senator Scott has been actively communicating with federal and local officials to ensure resources are available for affected communities.

Scott urged those needing assistance from federal agencies like FEMA or the SBA to contact his office. Earlier, he visited Manatee County for a briefing with Sheriff Rick Wells at the Emergency Operations Center. This week, he surveyed damage in several counties including St. Lucie, Volusia, Lake, Pinellas, Sarasota, Hillsborough, Lee, and Charlotte.

"Today, I joined President Joe Biden and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell on the ground in St. Pete Beach," said Senator Scott. He emphasized the need for continuous federal support beyond immediate disaster response. "Floridians are still hurting from storms years ago and the federal government needs to show up not just today, but every day."

Scott called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to expedite disaster funding once community needs are assessed. He also highlighted the importance of opening Disaster Recovery Centers near severely impacted areas and stressed USDA block grants for farmers.

"I’ve been visiting communities across the state as they continue lifesaving work," added Scott. He urged Floridians to remain cautious post-storm as dangers persist.

Earlier this week, Scott collaborated with Senator Marco Rubio and other Florida congressional members in a letter urging President Biden to approve Florida’s Expedited Major Disaster Declaration request after Hurricane Milton's landfall. Following their appeal, Biden approved it.

Ahead of Milton's arrival, Scott maintained daily communication with the National Hurricane Center and local officials along Florida’s Gulf Coast. He ensured resource availability by engaging with federal officials including FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Senators Scott and Rubio also advocated for pre-landfall emergency declarations for Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida; both were approved by President Biden. They further requested expedited plans for potential obstructions at Port Tampa Bay due to its significance in receiving petroleum products vital for Florida's economy.

For assistance with federal agencies following Hurricanes Milton and Helene, Floridians can visit www.rickscott.senate.gov/contact/casework or check updates from the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org or @FLSERT.