Hanabusa and Gabbard Statements on Federal Disaster Declaration, Ongoing Response

Statement

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, issued the following statement on approval of federal disaster declaration for Oahu and Kauai and the ongoing efforts in Puna.

"These resources are critical to the federal, state and county efforts ongoing on Oahu and Kauai to help communities recover from historic rainfall, flooding and mudslides that damaged or destroyed more than 630 homes, ruined businesses and closed critical infrastructure. This is a challenging time for our state as we manage ongoing disaster responses in three counties. The unpredictable nature of the eruption and lava flow in Puna will require another collective effort to support those who lost homes and property. Despite the difficulties we face, it is encouraging to see neighbors helping neighbors and people from all over the state helping out. That's what we do in Hawaii when things get tough. We work through it, together," said Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa. "Mahalo to all of the first responders and volunteers for your hard work and commitment."

"The people of Kaua"i and O'ahu have gone through tremendous hardship with a long path of recovery and rebuilding ahead of them. These Federal funds will provide much-needed assistance to those who faced record-breaking rain, floods, and landslides a few weeks ago. I've spent time in the communities affected by this devastation and seen firsthand the destroyed homes, businesses, and roads. I have heard from families separated from each other due to landslides, whose homes were flooded, and others who were forced to evacuate and have yet to return home. Today's major disaster declaration will provide necessary assistance to this community in their time of need," said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.

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