Political

Senator James Skoufis Calls for FEMA Declaration

Jul 12, 2023

Senator Skoufis surveys the damage in Highland Falls on July 10 2023 with DEC Region 3 Director Kelly R. Turturro and other state and local partners.

HIGHLAND FALLS – Senator Skoufis issued the following statement:
“Orange County was devastated by yesterday’s unprecedented rainfall and subsequent destruction. At least one life was lost, critical infrastructure was completely destroyed, and the full extent of damage to public and private property will take many weeks to fully assess. We are grateful to the Governor’s office and the state’s coordinated emergency response team for their hands-on support and rescue efforts.

“I am calling on the federal government to immediately issue a FEMA Major Disaster Declaration. Additionally, I urge the Governor to sign my bill, S.5201, requiring insurance companies to more promptly respond to disaster-related property claims.

Flooding aftermath in Highland Falls on July 10, 2023.

“Taken together, these actions will have the most direct and urgent impact on our hardest-hit communities. Our constituents across the county are reeling, and government agencies at every level must proactively and efficiently deliver relief.

“To the family of the Fort Montgomery resident who lost her life last night, and to the many families waking up to a life changed by last night’s devastation, our hearts go out and we are here for you.”