Rep. Kelly urges Governor Pritzker to issue disaster proclamation, unlock FEMA aid for Southland

MATTESON, IL - U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) urges Governor JB Pritzker and his administration to issue a state disaster proclamation, and request a federal disaster declaration, for areas impacted by recent severe storms, so that communities across the Southland can begin accessing the federal resources and relief they desperately need. Emphasizing that a proclamation is the necessary first step to unlock state and federal aid, and that time is of the essence for families trying to recover.

"Families across the Southland are hurting, and they need help fast," said Rep. Kelly. "A state disaster proclamation is the first step to getting them FEMA relief, and I'm urging Governor Pritzker to move on this quickly. I've lived through storm damage myself. I know what it's like to lose power for days and feel the weight of the storm damage. These families deserve the same urgency I know the Governor is capable of."

Rep. Kelly noted that a state disaster proclamation is a prerequisite for Illinois communities to access federal disaster assistance through FEMA. Without it, families and municipalities in the Southland remain ineligible for the resources they need to recover and rebuild.

"My office stands ready to work with the Governor's team, local officials, and anyone else who can help speed this process along," said Rep. Kelly. "I'm calling on elected officials across the Southland, in Springfield, and in Washington to join me in supporting this request. This is about people and getting them the help they need as quickly as possible."