Today Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after the White House declared a State of Emergency in the Virgin Islands related to Hurricane Dorian:
“The White House has declared a State of Emergency for the Virgin Islands [due] to the impact of Hurricane Dorian on the territory. When disasters strike, whether natural or man-made, state and local governments and emergency managers need quick access to resources that allow them to manage a crisis and provide services after the emergency. This declaration of a State of Emergency helps elected leaders achieve this mission.
“After Gov. Bryan’s declaration of a state of emergency, I’m grateful that he utilized his authority as the executive to petition the federal government to concur and issue a state of emergency. The governor specifically requested under the federal declaration for assistance with debris removal and emergency protective measures (categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, territory-wide.
“This State of Emergency helps enable government officials to take extra measures to protect the public, trigger anti-price gouging laws and seeks federal funding aid for disaster response as it is warranted. I look forward to working with both our local government and our federal government to make sure the U.S. Virgin Islands continues with recovery and rebuilding.”