Gary Peters

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, led members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation in urging the Small Business Administration (SBA) to support Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s request for an administrative disaster declaration following the severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, high winds, large hail and torrential rainfall across the state in April. U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and U.S. Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13) joined Peters in signing the letter.

The severe weather, storms and flooding resulted in tens of millions in damages to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure across 43 counties. Hundreds of residents were displaced from their homes, and even roads washed out and dams across the state almost failed. In the immediate aftermath, affected communities now face significant financial challenges for years to come as they attempt to rebuild their damaged homes and businesses, repair mechanical and electrical systems, and replace personal belongings. Governor Whitmer’s request to the SBA would help to provide low-interest disaster loans for Michiganders, helping residents and small businesses recover and easing the financial strain during this critical period.

“These conditions forced hundreds of residents to be displaced from their homes, temporarily or permanently while others were left stranded on their properties. Utility services were disrupted across the state. Numerous roads were flooded or washed out, and tornadoes impacted numerous communities, damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In response, over ten shelters were set up statewide. Residents now face financial hardship for years to come as they attempt to repair and restore their damaged homes and businesses to pre-disaster condition, repair or replace mechanical and electrical systems, and replace personal belongings,” the members wrote.

“The hardworking people and businesses across Michigan are strong and resilient. Yet, local capacity is limited, and recovery of this magnitude requires a coordinated effort at all levels of government. As such, we respectfully request that SBA swiftly approve Governor Whitmer’s request for an administrative declaration of disaster. This declaration would make available critical federal support and resources to struggling business owners as they continue working to stabilize operations, preserve jobs, and rebuild,” the members concluded.