Finkenauer Statement on Major Disaster Declaration for Meskwaki Nation

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) released the following statement on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) approval of the Meskwaki Nation’s Major Disaster Declaration request:

"I want to thank FEMA for recognizing the needs of our neighbors at the Meskwaki Settlement. After visiting the Meskwaki Nation last month and meeting with tribal leaders, it was clear to me that the August 10 derecho caused significant damage to personal and tribal property, and that federal assistance was necessary."

"I also want to thank Senators Grassley and Ernst for joining me in pushing the administration to grant the Meskwaki Nation’s request. While FEMA assistance is critical and necessary to help begin the recovery process, we must be ready to push for any additional help that may be needed in the coming weeks and months."

"Finally, I want to thank the Meskwaki Nation tribal leaders for leading the community through this very difficult time. The derecho caused devastating property damage, compounding the challenges already created by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. I am committed to helping leaders in any way I possibly can."

Background:

On August 20th, Congresswoman Finkenauer visited the Meskwaki Nation for a briefing from tribal leaders on the scale of damage done by August’s derecho. Finkenauer also sent a letter to the Trump Administration urging it to approve the tribe’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

On August 21st, Senators Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined Finkenauer in sending an additional letter the Trump Administration urging it to approve the tribe’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration.