The Democratic controlled congress passed a disaster relief bill last week to the tune of $28.6 billion, a portion which will go to Louisiana. Louisiana's portion will go towards the damages caused by three hurricanes that hit in 2020,, the February 2021 freeze and the recent hurricane Ida.
Southwest Louisiana which sustained heavy damages in 2020 will finally see some financial help and relief that was way overdue and should have been addressed by the previous administration in Washington. Governor Edwards will now have to sort out just what portion of the relief funds will come to Louisiana and determine if more relief funds will be available if necessary. We already know Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter thinks Louisiana's portion for his hard hit area will not be sufficient.
This writer believes that if Governor Edwards can make the case that additional disaster aid is needed, President Biden will be receptive. I say that because democratic administrations have a record of responding to the needs of states who have been affected by disasters. And Louisiana also has a governor who has political understanding and knows how to govern.
So in due time we will know how much Louisiana will receive and then make a judgement how much more will be needed if necessary. We do know that Louisiana suffered more than just damage to properties that also requires aid. So this aid package that congress just passed is only the beginning of a process.
This commentary written by Joe Lorio
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