OKC Standard

Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and James Lankford (R-OK) along with Representatives Frank Lucas (R-OK), Tom Cole (R-OK), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), and Josh Brecheen (R-OK) have taken swift action in response to the series of tornados and severe weather that hit Oklahoma over the past weekend.

In a joint effort, the Oklahoma Delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting disaster relief funding following the 22 tornados and storms that ravaged the state from April 27, 2024. The Delegation's letter supported the formal request from Governor Kevin Stitt for a major disaster declaration encompassing multiple counties and Native American nations in Oklahoma.

The Delegation emphasized the urgent need for assistance, stating, "State and local officials have informed us that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response and recovery is beyond the combined capability of the state and local governments, and that federal assistance is necessary to save lives, protect property, and to ensure the safety of these communities."

President Biden swiftly granted the Major Disaster Declaration, which will provide crucial federal resources to aid in the recovery efforts and help communities affected by the natural disasters to rebuild and recover. The delegation expressed their readiness to assist in any way necessary to ensure the prompt evaluation and implementation of the relief efforts.

The devastation caused by the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding highlighted the resilience and unity of Oklahomans as they came together to support each other in the aftermath of the destructive weather events.

The Oklahoma Delegation's proactive approach in securing immediate disaster relief underscores their commitment to the well-being and recovery of the communities impacted by the recent natural disasters.