Congresswoman Says White House Has Issued State of Emergency

Delegate Stacey Plaskett (Source file photo)
Delegate Stacey Plaskett (Source file photo)

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.”