WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led a bipartisan letter to President Joe Biden urging him to swiftly approve Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration.

The severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in Middle Tennessee caused 6 fatalities and dozens of injuries, produced significant damage to nearly 1,900 homes, and completely destroyed over 500 homes.  

Senator Blackburn was joined by the entire Tennessee delegation: Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), John Rose (R-Tenn.), Mark Green (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.). 

Click here to download a video of Senator Blackburn.

Read the full letter here or below.

We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on December 9, 2023.

On December 9, 2023, tornadoes and severe storms ravaged Tennessee. The first tornado watch was issued on Saturday morning, and numerous tornadoes developed thereafter. As of December 11, 2023, the National Weather Service has confirmed six tornadoes that resulted in catastrophic damage. Devastatingly, the Tennessee Department of Health has confirmed six fatalities related to these events, along with numerous others who were injured. Initial reports indicate that nearly 1,900 homes across the state have been damaged, with over 500 homes being completely destroyed.

To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery, and Sumner Counties, along with Hazard Mitigation statewide. Governor Lee’s request is attached. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible.

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