Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration for El Paso County following severe storms and flooding late last month.
If the federal government approves the request, eligible homeowners, renters, businesses and private nonprofits affected by the flooding could access low-interest disaster loans. The funding would assist with recovery and rebuilding efforts.
“This request will help provide eligible Texans with access to low-interest disaster loans they need to rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities,” Abbott said.
The governor’s request follows an analysis of the damage sustained in impacted communities, which was conducted by local, state and federal officials. Texans affected by the flooding are encouraged to continue reporting damage to their homes and businesses through the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s online Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool. The survey data helps officials measure the extent of the damage and determine further recovery requirements.
An existing state disaster declaration for El Paso County is still active while state resources assist with local recovery.