Iowa Congressional Delegation Secures $2.65 Billion in Federal Disaster Funding
Updated:  May 20, 2013

Washington, DC – The Iowa House delegation announced Thursday that at their urging the House Appropriations Committee has included $2.65 billion dollars in emergency funding in the Emergency Supplemental bill that will be voted on today.  This $2.65 billion will be distributed between the following federal accounts: FEMA, the Army Corp of Engineers, SBA Disaster Loans, and Agricultural Assistance.
 
“The devastating effects of these floods can be seen throughout Iowa,” said Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-02).  “By working together bipartisanly, our delegation has successfully secured the funding necessary for residents and businesses to begin the recovery process.  This funding, in combination with the strong spirit and work ethic of every Iowan, will allow our communities to rebuild and thrive once again.  As we continue to work on disaster funding, I will work with my colleagues to ensure future funding is provided to our state for initiatives such as Community Development Block Grants, Economic Development Disaster Assistance Grants, and other funding that will help get Iowans back on their feet.”
 
 “Iowans need these funds to help life return to normal,” said Congressman Tom Latham (IA-04). “We must do everything we can to help people safely return to their homes and businesses. These funds can help ensure that Iowans can get back on their feet, safely clean up and keep moving forward.”
 
“I'm extremely pleased that congressional leaders and the Administration recognize the significant need and are responding quickly to help Iowa families and businesses get back on their feet again,” added Congressman Leonard Boswell (IA-03)
 
"The 1993 floods were unprecedented 500 year events.  Today, the river crests have eclipsed the all time high water marks set 15 years ago.  A 500 year flood event has taken on new meaning,” offered Congressman Steve King (IA-05).  "We have suffered unprecedented loss of life in the recent natural disasters in Iowa.  Iowans have done all they possibly could to prepare for the floods of 2008.  Iowans will again set the standard for helping themselves and each other in the recovery effort.  It will cost billions.  In asking the taxpayers for assistance, we pledge to use every dollar as efficiently and responsibly as we possibly can."
 
“The floods of 2008 have affected nearly everyone in Iowa.  The scope of the damage to Iowans’ homes, lives, property, crops and livelihoods almost defies description.  This disaster has had a devastating impact on Iowa’s economy­and the US economy.  This unprecedented disaster demands special action to help the people of Iowa rebuild,” added Congressman Bruce Braley (IA-01).  “When things get tough in Iowa, Iowans come together and help one another.  I’m proud that Iowa’s congressional delegation is working together to help Iowans overwhelmed by the flood.”
 
In response to the devastating floods that have ravaged much of Iowa and many other states throughout the Midwest, the Iowa delegation in the House of Representatives sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader John Boehner requesting they immediately begin working with the House Appropriations Committee to provide robust emergency disaster funding.  The funding included in this Supplemental bill was a result of this and other efforts by the Iowa delegation to quickly provide assistance to those affected by the floods.
 
“On Friday I was contacted by several members whose districts were hit with floods,” said Appropriations Committee Chairman Dave Obey.  “Working with those members, we have added significant funding to the Supplemental to ensure that federal agencies have the necessary resources to meet the needs of impacted communities.”
 
The extent of damage to Iowa and to the other Midwestern States is currently unknown.  However, water levels have surpassed the marks set by the 1993 flooding, which resulted in billions of dollars of damage.  In some areas, such as the Cedar and Iowa Rivers, which have experienced “500-year” floods, water levels are not expected to drop below flood levels for another week, if not longer.
 
Damages to affected communities include loss of power, water and waste water treatment, emergency communications, sanitary and storm sewer destruction and serious damages to public infrastructure including miles of roadway, bridges, culverts, and governmental buildings.  Untold numbers of homes and businesses have also been damaged.  Downtown areas in Des Moines, Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Mason City, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Coralville, other communities, and small towns have been devastated, resulting in physical and economic ruin.