Gov. John Bel Edwards increases federal flood aid request to $4 billion

Gov. John Bel Edwards has increased the amount of federal money he thinks the state needs for flood recovery efforts — from $2.8 billion to $4 billion.

In a letter to President Barack Obama this week, Edwards said that the total impact of the catastrophic flood that swept across south Louisiana in August, killing 13 people and leaving thousands of homes damaged or destroyed, is becoming clearer as officials assess the damage.

“The federal government has been incredibly responsive to the needs of our state in the wake of two historic floods,” Edwards said in a statement. “However, FEMA now estimates that our unmet needs are greater than our initial request. Congress approved a down payment for assistance, and we are extremely grateful, but there are significant challenges ahead. Addressing our agricultural losses, rebuilding homes and businesses, restoring our infrastructure and strengthening communities to ensure this type of flood does not happen again are critically important for Louisiana’s future. I look forward to working with Congress and our congressional delegation after the election to give the people of Louisiana the assistance they need.”

Last month, Louisiana secured an initial $437.8 million in federal aid that officials have called a "down payment" on future assistance. Louisiana leaders are hoping to secure more aid when Congress returns later this year after the November elections.

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