Northern Tier News

Rep. Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) issued a statement following the Biden administration's major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth after flooding in the region on August 9.

"This is outstanding news for our region and the thousands of people impacted by the extreme flooding brought on by Tropical Storm Debby," Owlett said. "I commend the Tioga County commissioners, Tioga County PA Emergency Services, dedicated first responders, business owners and citizens for making this happen by being diligent in reporting the damages they incurred to accurately demonstrate to the federal government the immense need in our communities."

Owlett emphasized that the aid would significantly help those affected as they work to repair and rebuild their properties. He also stated his intention to focus on enacting policies aimed at better managing creeks and streams to protect citizens from future intense flooding events.

The disaster declaration, issued late Wednesday afternoon, applies to Tioga County as well as Lycoming, Potter, and Union counties. This declaration makes residents who suffered damage during the flooding eligible for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program provides direct benefits to homeowners and renters to assist with uninsured or under-insured necessary expenses and serious needs due to the disaster. It can help with temporary rentals, lodging reimbursement, home repairs and replacement, as well as some personal property, medical, and dental expenses incurred due to the flooding.

FEMA will collaborate with state emergency management officials to open Disaster Recovery Centers in the four-county region soon. These centers will be staffed to assist residents with documentation reviews to expedite applications for assistance.

Representative Clint Owlett

68th District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Patricia Hippler

717-772-9846