WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman—wrote to President Joe Biden urging him to support Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request for a 100 percent federal cost share for state and local resources spent during the first 30 days of debris cleanup from March 31, 2023 severe storms and tornadoes in Cross, Lonoke and Pulaski counties.

“While we are grateful for the support provided by our local first responders, county and state emergency management agencies, FEMA, and the White House, additional federal assistance is needed to help our communities recover,” members wrote.

The letter can be found here and below:

Dear Mr. President,

Thank you for the expedited Major Disaster Declaration in the wake of devastating tornadoes and storms that caused extensive damage in Arkansas. The State of Arkansas greatly appreciates your assistance and support to date.

On behalf of the State of Arkansas, we are writing to support Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request to increase the federal cost share for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance Categories A (Debris) and B (Emergency Protective Measures) to 100 percent. We strongly believe that an increase in the federal cost share is needed to effectively respond to a disaster of this severity.

The severity of the devastating severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on March 31, 2023, created disastrous amounts of debris, caused widespread power outages, and resulted in the death of at least five citizens. Preliminary damage estimates show a significant impact on local jurisdictions in Cross, Lonoke, and Pulaski Counties. The destruction has additionally compounded the ongoing recovery efforts stemming from the effects of a previous Major Disaster Declaration for severe winter storms in January and February. Even with these difficulties, Arkansans continue to demonstrate their resiliency and resourcefulness during these challenging times. 

As you know, Governor Sanders has activated all emergency resources, and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management has coordinated all appropriate state agencies. While we are grateful for the support provided by our local first responders, county and state emergency management agencies, FEMA, and the White House, additional federal assistance is needed to help our communities recover. The counties mentioned above have severely damaged homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure, and further federal government support will be vital in our restoration efforts. 

The entire Arkansas delegation respectfully requests your swift consideration and approval of this request to ensure Arkansans' safety and recovery efforts. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.