DES MOINES – Iowa Gov. Terry E. Branstad today requested a major disaster event declaration from United States President Barack Obama in response to the avian flu outbreak in Iowa. Over 33 million birds in Iowa have been affected by the deadly virus. The request is being made for Buena Vista, Sioux, Webster and Wright counties, but additional counties may be added to the request as additional losses are identified.
Branstad is requesting the following:
1. Unemployment Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Case Management, and Disaster Legal Services, as well as any other Stafford Act programs appropriate for those who have lost employment and income as a result of the HPAI outbreak for Buena Vista, Sioux, Webster and Wright counties.
2. Allow the Federal Highway Administration to issue a tonnage waiver on the state’s federal aid roadways, such as Interstates 29 and 35. This waiver would accelerate the disposal process and reduce the likelihood of spreading HPAI while transporting poultry to disposal sites.
“With a disaster of this magnitude adversely affecting Iowa farmers, producers and the workers they employ, I am requesting federal assistance from President Obama and the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” said Branstad. “Unemployment assistance from the federal government, in addition to efforts already occurring inside our state, will help displaced workers. In addition, issuing a tonnage waiver will allow for efficient disposal and cleanup of affected sites. Given the unprecedented nature of this disaster, it is my hope that the President will expedite this request to provide federal assistance as soon as possible.”
Why should taxpayers pay for this? Doesn’t anyone who goes into business take the risk of that business failing? Where do we draw the line? This makes about as much sense as compensating Jeff Brakke for his deer that had chronic wasting disease. Still shaking my head at that one.
Good question. Would they build you a new house if yours burns down? Would they buy you a new business if yours went under? I don’t think so. You have to be a millionaire before you qualify for that. Kind of like building a skating rink on taxpayer money isn’t it?
@Anonymous-This his buddy’s. The rich farmers and he is taking care of his friends again at our expense.
I thought this sob was a conservative. Who is going to pay for this?