Hawaiʻi congressional delegation seek federal support for disaster recovery

The Hawaiʻi congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., expressed support for Gov. Josh Green’s request for a presidential disaster declaration for communities across the state affected by heavy rain and severe flooding.

U.S. senators Brian Schatz and Mazie K. Hirono and U.S. representatives Ed Case and Jill Tokuda sent a letter to President Donald Trump to support Green’s request and explain the need.

“The storms are causing continued damage to our infrastructure and utilities, with flood watches and warnings still in effect for parts of the state. Landslides, floodwaters, and debris caused washouts and closures of roadways,” the delegation wrote in their letter to President Trump.

“Prior to this disaster, our communities were still rebuilding from devastating wildfires in Maui and Hawaiʻi counties that claimed 102 lives and destroyed more than 2,000 structures. State and county officials now need federal support for the extensive repairs required for flood-damaged homes, small businesses, roads, and public facilities across the islands.”

A disaster declaration would help ensure that affected communities can access critical federal funding and resources needed to support response, recovery, and rebuilding efforts.

“As you know, approval of a disaster declaration can make a real difference for families and communities working to recover and rebuild. We appreciate the Trump administration’s continued attention to ensuring Americans have access to the federal support and resources they need in the aftermath of natural disasters,” the delegation continued.

“We are grateful for your consideration of this request, and we look forward to working with your administration in the months and years ahead to help Hawaiʻi recover and rebuild.”

The full text of the delegation’s letter is available here.