Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) reintroduced the Colorado Wilderness Act, a landmark bill that would permanently protect more than 720,000 acres of wilderness across 36 distinct areas in Colorado with the highest level of federal protection available.
The legislation comes as the Trump administration has spent the past year selling off public lands to oil and gas companies and mining firms, threatening some of America’s most treasured places.
“We cannot let Donald Trump and his cronies sell our country for parts and permanently destroy our public lands,” said DeGette. “Colorado’s majestic landscapes and vast wilderness areas are what make our state so special, and it’s why millions of outdoor adventurers come here each year to visit. It’s up to us to protect these precious lands for future generations to enjoy just as we’ve been able to do.”
The Colorado Wilderness Act would provide statutory protection against future attempts to privatize federal lands since once designated by Congress, these areas are protected in perpetuity, ensuring they remain for future generations. Senator Mike Lee’s twin efforts last year to embed land sale provisions in H.R. 1 and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) demonstrate that wilderness designation is the only way to ensure these areas remain in the public trust.
Protecting What Coloradans Want
Like much of their agenda, the Trump administration’s attacks on conservation protections run counter to the will of the people. According to a recent Colorado College poll, over 70% of respondents support protecting more wilderness and wild lands—compared with just 24% who want to see oil and gas development. The issue transcends partisan divides, with protecting public lands ranking as a top priority across the political spectrum in Colorado.
Despite this overwhelming public support, the administration has pursued unprecedented cuts to the staff and budgets dedicated to stewarding public lands across the United States, all while opening these areas up to exploitation by a handful of big oil billionaires and donors.
An Economic Imperative
Colorado’s public lands provide more than just unique places to visit—they are a major economic driver for the state. According to the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry generates $37 billion in consumer spending each year and supports 511,000 jobs throughout the state.
The Colorado Wilderness Act strikes the necessary balance between preserving wild places and promoting economic development by ensuring these lands remain accessible for recreation, tourism, and the industries they support.
The Colorado Wilderness Act has garnered support from leading conservation organizations across the state.
“I applaud today’s action to renew efforts to achieve permanent protections for some of the most revered wildlands in Colorado, such as the renowned Dolores River canyon and three fourteen-thousand foot peaks in the San Juan Mountains – Redcloud, Sunshine and Handies. The BLM first proposed these areas be protected as wilderness more than 40 years ago, and it’s time Congress acted. I’ve been intensively engaged in advocacy on behalf of these wildlands for decades, and have had the great privilege of visiting a number of these areas with Rep. DeGette,” said Mark Pearson, Executive Director, San Juan Citizens Alliance.
“Wild Connections applauds Representative DeGette for introducing the Colorado Wilderness Act in 2026. Over the past year, we have witnessed mounting challenges to our public lands and waters and the agencies that steward them. Representative DeGette’s leadership to expand Wilderness protections — especially for BLM-managed landscapes that have long been underrepresented in Colorado and across the West — reflects the urgency of safeguarding our most wild and ecologically important public lands in Colorado for future generations,” said John Sztukowski, Co-Executive Director for Conservation, Wild Connections.
More details about the Colorado Wilderness Act of 2026, including a map of areas included in the bill can be found here. A copy of the bill text is available here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)
Larsen Secures Local Jobs and Infrastructure Investments in Funding Bills
Washington, D.C., February 9, 2026
Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after voting yes on Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) spending bills. The package passed the House with bipartisan support on a 341-88 vote and was recently signed into law.
“This legislative package creates jobs, builds community centers and strengthens infrastructure in Northwest Washington,” said Rep. Larsen. “Each investment of federal dollars here at home will serve our communities for decades to come. I will keep working closely with local leaders to make sure federal spending benefits the communities I represent.”
Larsen’s Requested Funding for Local Projects Included
Last week, Rep. Larsen secured $10,160,295 for ten projects in Northwest Washington. Funding for those projects is included in the FY26 spending package.
$2,000,000 for Community Transit’s Bus Replacement Project to purchase battery electric buses and chargers to replace diesel buses that are beyond their expected useful life.
$2,000,000 for Latino Educational Training Institute (LETI)’s Incubator for Family Success for Edmonds College and LETI to establish a comprehensive community center in South Everett for low-income families in Snohomish County.
$1,510,295 for Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County to preserve and renovate the Douglas Building so that it can serve more survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
$1,200,000 to reconstruct the Port of Edmonds’ North Portwalk and Seawall to protect the Port and surrounding community and improve public access.
$1,000,000 for Lynden’s Flood, Agriculture, Safety, Salmon, and Transportation (FASST) project to relocate Pepin Creek, preventing future floods during winter storms and protecting salmon and other endangered fish.
Larsen secured a $2,000,000 grant for the Pepin Creek FAAST project from the U.S. Department of Transportation last January.
$850,000 to renovate Bellingham’s Central Library, including updated windows, upgraded main and children’s entrances, and a refreshed plaza.
$850,000 for the construction of Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space, which will provide increased food bank space, a commercial kitchen and community meeting spaces.
$250,000 to build Anacortes’ Community Event Center that will host large-scale tourist-oriented events, local nonprofit events and private rentals.
$250,000 for Snohomish County’s Intermodal Yard, which will add a new track and improved storage areas and is designed to increase the railroad yard’s operating capacity.
Testimonials from Local Stakeholders about Funding Larsen Secured
Lynden’s Pepin Flood, Agriculture, Safety, Salmon, and Transportation (FASST) project
“Representative Larsen has been a champion of bringing funding back to Washington State and Lynden for key infrastructure projects. The Pepin sub-area is the largest area in the city remaining for residential development; however, it presents numerous challenges including a lack of infrastructure. This federal funding is a major win for our city,” said Scott Korthuis, Mayor of Lynden. “It allows us to invest directly in critical projects that strengthen our infrastructure, support our residents, and position our community for long-term success. We greatly appreciate Representative Larsen’s efforts on behalf of the City of Lynden.”
Bellingham Central Library Renovation
“This funding for the Bellingham Central Library is a tremendous investment in the heart of our community,” said Kim Lund, Mayor of Bellingham. “The library is a welcoming place where people of all ages come to learn and connect, and this funding will help us enhance accessibility and create a more vibrant, inviting experience for everyone. We are grateful for Rep. Rick Larsen’s leadership and partnership in making this project a reality for Bellingham.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Rep. Rick Larsen for championing libraries as essential community anchors,” said Rebecca Judd, Bellingham Library Director. “This funding will help us move forward with long-anticipated exterior and accessibility improvements that will make the library more inclusive for all, especially families and children. The Bellingham Central Library is a treasured part of our community, and our shared commitment ensures future generations will have a place to learn and grow together.”
Anacortes Community Event Center
“We’re grateful for Representative Larsen’s support of our community event facility, which will be a transformative opportunity to advance local tourism, stimulate economic development, and provide an essential gathering space for residents and visitors alike,” said Ryan Walters, Mayor of Anacortes. “This facility will generate long-term revenue for the city and county, support small business growth, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.”
DVSAS of Whatcom County Douglas Building Preservation
“Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) extends its deepest gratitude to Congressman Larsen and his team for their efforts in prioritizing funding to preserve our downtown support center,” said Meghan Tinsley, Operations Director of DVSAS. “Securing this vital funding guarantees continued access to essential services for individuals experiencing domestic or sexual violence, ensuring survivors have a lifeline to safety and immediate access to crisis services. Congressman Larsen’s commitment to preserving our downtown support center ensures everyone in our community has access to safety and support, now and for years to come.”
Port of Everett South Marina Terminal Replacement
“The Port of Everett appreciates Representative Larsen’s advocacy for investment in critical infrastructure across the region,” Port of Everett CEO/Executive Director Lisa Lefeber said. “This funding is key in advancing our Dock 1 replacement to add necessary capacity and create new passenger connections in the Puget Sound. It also opens new opportunities to diversify tourism and strengthen our regional economy.”
Community Transit Bus Replacement Project
“Community Transit is committed to helping people get from where they are to where they want to be with safe, reliable public transportation,” said Ric Ilgenfritz, CEO of Community Transit. “Replacing older diesel buses with new, lower emission buses ensures better service and a cleaner environment. We thank Rep. Larsen for delivering the benefits this crucial investment brings to our region.”
LETI Incubator for Family Success
“The ‘Incubator for Family Success’ represents a vital bridge for our community, providing the resources necessary for families to thrive and students to reach their highest potential, said Edmonds College President Dr. Amit B Singh. “Our deep partnership with LETI is rooted in a shared commitment to opportunity, and we are grateful to Representative Rick Larsen for his steadfast advocacy in securing this funding for Snohomish County.”
“We are grateful for Representative Larsen’s continued support of LETI’s Incubator for Family Success and for Edmonds College’s partnership in this initiative. This center will become an enduring resource for Latino and low-income families across Snohomish County—fostering multigenerational dialogue, cultural-retention programs, and access to vital services, while also providing flexible rental space,” said Rosario Reyes, Founder & CEO of LETI. “Through business development and self-sustaining income opportunities generated by the center, LETI will create a sustainable funding model that reduces reliance on future public funding. This will allow LETI to strengthen and focus its work to support and empower low-income families through education, training, and long-term economic stability.”
Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space
“Representative Rick Larsen has been a steadfast advocate for the Edmonds Food Bank and our Thrive Together campaign to build a new food bank,” said Casey Davis, Executive Director of the Edmonds Food Bank. “His tenacious commitment to keeping neighbors facing food insecurity at the forefront of his human services work, especially in these uniquely challenging times, continues to inspire our team. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Rick Larsen for championing our request for critical federal funding that will empower us to respectfully serve our customers well into the future.”
Port of Edmonds North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction Project
“The Port of Edmonds is deeply grateful to Representative Rick Larsen for securing community project funding to advance essential seawall improvements for the Portwalk project,” said Janelle Cass, Port of Edmonds Commission President. “This investment reinforces critical waterfront infrastructure that protects the environment, supports reliable rail service, improves public access, and strengthens economic vitality for Edmonds.”
Snohomish County Intermodal Yard
“The Snohomish County Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements Project in Everett is crucial for maintaining the county’s transportation network. This project will help to improve safety, reliability and economic vitality for both freight and passenger rail service by eliminating key choke points in the rail line network,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “It will also improve the solid waste infrastructure as all refuse in the county is transported by rail to a regional landfill. We want to thank Congressman Larsen and his office for their work in getting this legislation passed for the people of Snohomish County.”
Larsen Secures $75 million for Northwest Washington since 2022
In January, Rep. Larsen secured $1.6 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies spending bill for projects in Whatcom County. He secured $1,031,000 for Western Washington University’s (WWU) Shannon Point Marine Center Research Vessel and $600,000 for Whatcom County Sheriff Office’s Portable Radio Replacement Project.
Last November, Rep. Larsen secured $2.1 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture spending bill for three local projects in Island and San Juan counties. Since 2022, Larsen has secured more than $75 million for 55 projects in Northwest Washington state through annual spending bills.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)
Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference, where he emphasized that despite the high cost of living, the Trump administration is using taxpayer dollars to brutalize and kill the American people instead of to make like more affordable for them.
LEADER JEFFRIES: Notwithstanding what Donald Trump continues to say, the affordability crisis in America is very real. It is a clear and present danger to the economic well-being of working class Americans, middle class Americans and everyday Americans. Donald Trump and Republicans have failed the country when it comes to the economy. Republicans promised that they were going to lower the high cost of living on day one of Donald Trump’s presidency. But costs haven’t gone down in the United States of America. Costs have gone up under failed Republican policies. Housing costs are out of control. Grocery costs are out of control. Healthcare costs are out of control. Utility bills are out of control. And child care costs are out of control.
The affordability crisis in the United States of America is very real. Republicans have failed to lower the high cost of living, and as a result of the Trump tariffs, costs are going up by thousands of dollars per year on everyday Americans. Democrats remain committed to driving down the high cost of living, to fixing our broken healthcare system and to ensuring that we have immigration enforcement policies in this country that are fair, just and humane. Republicans have failed America on affordability, on healthcare, on immigration enforcement, and they have failed to make life better for the American people.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)
Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Rep. Bill Foster’s (D-IL) bipartisan FSOC Improvement Act. This legislation would make the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) more responsive to emerging threats by clarifying the process of determining whether a financial firm is systemically important to the financial system.
Specifically, this legislation requires FSOC to work with a company and its primary regulator to mitigate risks associated with its business activities before designating the company in its entirety as a Systemically Important Financial Institution (SIFI)—a lengthy and resource-intensive process that may delay a more immediate regulatory response.
“Since FSOC was created, lawmakers and administration officials have debated the process of determining if a firm poses a risk to our financial system,” said Rep. Foster. “Past efforts by FSOC to designate firms’ risk levels have been controversial or short-lived. This bipartisan legislation strengthens FSOC’s ability to identify and address emerging threats to financial stability and consumers by promoting a more consistent, accountable, and effective approach to oversight.”
The FSOC Improvement Act is cosponsored by Representatives Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Young Kim (R-CA), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Daniel Meuser (R-PA), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), David Scott (D-GA), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Janelle Bynum (D-OR), Troy Downing (R-MT), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Jim Himes (D-CT), and Zach Nunn (R-IA). The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)
February 09, 2026 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the Air Quality Act. This legislation would prohibit weather modification activities in the United States and establish clear federal guidelines to protect air quality, public health, and environmental integrity.
For more than 60 years, governments around the world, including the United States, have explored weather modification techniques such as geoengineering and cloud seeding. Some of these efforts, including military experiments during the Vietnam era, are now well-documented. In recent years, private interest and investment in atmospheric and climate intervention technologies have increased significantly, underscoring the need for clear rules, oversight, and accountability in a largely unregulated space.
“Just as we place strict standards on water quality, the same approach should be applied to air quality,” said Rep. Steube. “Our skies should never be treated as a testing ground for chemical or atmospheric manipulation.”
The Air Quality Act builds on actions taken by the state of Florida by creating a uniform federal prohibition on activities intended to affect weather, temperature, or sunlight intensity. The bill establishes strong criminal and civil penalties for any individual or entity that knowingly releases substances into the atmosphere for the purpose of altering environmental conditions.
The bill prohibits weather modification and geoengineering activities nationwide, establishes strong penalties to deter those who would pollute our air, strengthens federal oversight and enforcement, and creates transparent reporting and investigation mechanisms to improve public trust.
“It is important for the American people to trust that their government does not support or fund weather modification activities, nor does it permit rogue actors who attempt to pollute our air,” Steube said. “The Air Quality Act establishes much-needed national enforcement and accountability standards.”
The Air Quality Act is not about speculation or conspiracy theories. It is about strengthening transparency, accountability, and public confidence by applying the same commonsense environmental standards to our air that are applied across other areas of environmental protection.Read the full bill text here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)
February 09, 2026 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act or EXILE Act. This bill would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by ending the H-1B visa program. “Prioritizing foreign labor over the well-being and prosperity of American citizens undermines our values and national interests,” said Rep. Steube. “Our workers and young people continue to be displaced and disenfranchised by the H-1B visa program that awards corporations and foreign competitors at the expense of our workforce. We cannot preserve the American dream for our children while forfeiting their share to non-citizens. That is why I am introducing the EXILE Act to put working Americans first again.” Background: The EXILE Act would amend Section 214(g)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1184) by ending the H-1B visa program. More than 80% of recipients of H-1B visas are Indian or Chinese nationals with priority given to younger workers.Here are some examples of how the H-1B visa program has disadvantaged American workers:
The H-1B visa program has prevented more than 10,000 U.S. physicians from accessing residency programs by facilitating the arrival of more than 5,000 foreign-born doctors.
More than 16,000 Microsoft employees were displaced following the approval of more than 9,000 H-1B visas in 2025.
FedEx’s utilization of the H-1B resulted in the shuttering of more than 100 facilities across the United States.
Disney laid off 250 employees in 2015, only to replace them with foreign workers brought in via the H-1B visa.
In 2014, Southern California Edison fired 540 workers. Their replacements were brought in from two Indian outsourcing firms that utilized the H-1B visa program.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)
February 09, 2026 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the bipartisan Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act. This bill would allow businesses impacted by federally declared disasters to transfer select general business credit carry forwards to future years. Rep. Steube’s bill serves as a House companion to legislation introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).
“Natural disasters and emergencies often complicate the delivery of public utilities including electricity,” said Rep. Steube. “My bill would increase financial flexibility and savings for producers and customers alike by making the tax code more responsive to on the ground needs of Americans living in disaster zones. From reducing the cost of storm restoration efforts to guaranteeing market liquidity in disaster areas, the Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act will better prepare Florida for the next hurricane season.”
Joining Rep. Steube on this bill are Reps. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), Greg Murphy (R-N.C.), Terri A. Sewell (D-Ala.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), and Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.).
“After devastating hurricanes like Helene and Milton, Florida families are trying to rebuild, and high power bills are the last thing they need,” said Rep. Buchanan. “The Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act gives electric utilities the flexibility they need to restore service faster following major disasters while passing savings on to consumers. By allowing electric utilities in disaster zones to transfer existing tax credits, this bill frees up capital to invest in recovery and repair damaged energy infrastructure. Our bill helps communities recover stronger and prepares Florida for the next hurricane season.”
“Eastern North Carolina is all too familiar with how devastating natural disasters can be and the damage they cause,” said Rep. Murphy. “The bipartisan Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act provides those in disaster areas with much-needed financial flexibility under these tragic circumstances. A special thanks to Congressman Steube for introducing this bill, which will help those in Eastern North Carolina and around the country, and for his continued advocacy for disaster victims.”
“We in Alabama are no strangers to severe weather,” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m proud to partner with Congressman Steube on this bipartisan legislation which would provide critical tax relief to businesses impacted by natural disasters.”
“The Pacific Northwest knows how devastating natural disasters can be for families and local economies,” said Rep. DelBene. “The Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act will help support communities recovering from floods, storms, and other extreme weather events. It would allow utilities to use their tax credits from previous years to invest in repairing and strengthening energy infrastructure. This means communities would be better equipped to manage and reduce the damage from future disasters.”
Background: The Disaster Zone Energy Affordability and Investment Act would amend Section 6418 of the tax code to permit eligible companies to transfer all or a portion of business credit carryforward related to credits listed in subsection (f)(1)(A)(ii) and (ix). This would apply only to businesses in federally declared disaster zones.
Read the full bill text here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Put America on Commission Act of 2026, which establishes an Office of Whistleblower Awards within the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to incentivize the public to come forward with credible tips related to pandemic-era loan fraud.
This bipartisan bill strengthens oversight and accountability by rewarding whistleblowers who provide information that leads to a final conviction, helping to recover taxpayer dollars lost to fraud in pandemic relief programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
“The Pandemic relief programs were created to help small businesses survive during an unprecedented crisis, not to be exploited by fraudsters,”said Congressman Williams.“The Put America on Commission Act helps restore confidence in the American people that federal funds are managed responsibly and that any misuse is addressed quickly and transparently.”
“Protecting taxpayers and restoring trust in government starts with accountability,”said Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02). “I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Put America on Commission Act to empower Americans to report fraud and stolen pandemic relief funds. Exploiting programs meant to support small businesses and families in crisis is stealing from our communities—and this bill makes clear that we will hold anyone accountable while safeguarding taxpayer funds for those who truly need it.”
Whistleblowers may receive a monetary award based on the significance of the information they provide if it leads to a final conviction. Individuals who participated in the fraud are prohibited from receiving awards. The SBA is authorized to impose additional civil penalties on convicted fraudsters, with proceeds deposited into the Whistleblower Award Fund, and any unused funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury.
Congressman Johnny Olszewski (D- Maryland) is joining as the original Democratic co-lead.
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Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded Friends of Southwest Virginia, based in Abingdon, Virginia, a $300,000 grant for an Outdoor Recreation Initiative project. The funding will support Buchanan and Dickenson Counties in the development of a strategic recreation plan. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:
“Outdoor recreation provides Southwest Virginia communities with new opportunities for economic growth, investment and interest.
“This ARC grant for $300,000 helps Friends of Southwest Virginia create and implement a strategic plan to support a popular and growing industry.”
BACKGROUND
The strategic plan will analyze existing recreation infrastructure, recommend high-impact improvements and propose a cohesive recreation brand.
Friends of Southwest Virginia leads various projects to preserve, promote and present the cultural and natural assets of Southwest Virginia.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03)
WASHINGTON – The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared their strong support for Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a major disaster declaration after deadly Winter Storm Fern struck the state from January 23 through January 27, 2026.
U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., sent President Trump a letter endorsing the governor’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration for 36 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for individual federal assistance and disaster unemployment. The message also contains a request for public assistance to help local governments in 38 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. If approved, the major disaster declaration would unlock additional federal resources to supplement state recovery efforts, including debris removal.
“We are grieved that preliminary reports indicate that 26 lives have been lost in our state. Nearly 200,000 homes lost power, and many residents remain without electricity. Initial damage assessments point to widespread destruction of homes, businesses, and community facilities,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter follows a preliminary disaster assessment, which highlights the tragic loss of life and the extent of damage to Mississippi communities
“State and local resources, along with those of volunteer organizations, are insufficient to meet Mississippi’s recovery needs. Strong federal support and coordination will be essential to help communities recover and rebuild,” the lawmakers continued.
In the aftermath of the devastation caused by Winter Storm Fern and its significant impact on the State of Mississippi, we respectfully encourage your full consideration of Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a major disaster declaration. We are grateful for the continued support provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in response to this and prior disasters, and we look forward to the agency’s timely assistance as state and local officials work diligently to assess and respond to the full scope of the damage.
From January 23 through January 27, 2026, dozens of Mississippi counties experienced extreme weather conditions as a result of Winter Storm Fern. We are grieved that preliminary reports indicate that 26 lives have been lost in our state. Nearly 200,000 homes lost power, and many residents remain without electricity. Initial damage assessments point to widespread destruction of homes, businesses, and community facilities.
The requested major disaster declaration includes a request for individual assistance for 36 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, as well as disaster unemployment. Additionally, it contains a request for public assistance to help local governments in 38 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, particularly with debris removal.
State and local resources, along with those of volunteer organizations, are insufficient to meet Mississippi’s recovery needs. Strong federal support and coordination will be essential to help communities recover and rebuild. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact us should additional information be needed.”