WASHINGTON— US Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and David Vitter (R-LA) today introduced a Senate resolution honoring the memory and legacy of the thirteen citizens who died during the tragic flooding last month in Louisiana.
Both senators are currently working to pass funding to help repair the significant damage the flooding caused and to increase the recovery cost-share between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the state of Louisiana.
“We must remember and honor those who lost their lives in Louisiana’s recent flood,” Dr. Cassidy said. “We recognize the first responders and volunteers who saved thousands and continue providing assistance during our recovery. Louisiana will rebuild, recover and prosper.”
“This once-in-a-thousand-year-flooding disaster has tragically taken 13 lives, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the loved ones they leave behind, as well as with those who have also tragically lost everything in the wake of the floodwaters,” said Vitter. “But as we move forward, as communities rebuild and families return to their torn-down homes, it’s encouraging to see the generosity, strength, and support coming from family, friends, neighbors, and strangers to help those who have lost so much in recent weeks. It will certainly be a long road to recovery, but I am confident in Louisianans’ ability to rebuild and recover—together.”
Senators Vitter and Cassidy offer this resolution today as this is the first day the Senate has returned to session since the devastating flood in Louisiana.
The full text of the resolution is available online and below:
Title: Honoring the memory and legacy of the 12 Louisiana citizens and 1 Texas citizen who lost their lives due to the tragic flooding in the State of Louisiana in August 2016.
Whereas, during mid-August 2016, a historic flood swept through the southern part of the State of Louisiana, taking the lives of 13 people, damaging over 130,000 homes, displacing thousands of families, and causing over $8,700,000,000 of material damages;
Whereas William Mayfield, 67, of Zachary, Louisiana, perished on August 12, 2016;
Whereas Linda Coco Bishop, 63, perished on August 14, 2016;
Whereas Brett Broussard, 55, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, perished on August 15, 2016;
Whereas William F. “Bill” Borne, 58, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, perished on August 16, 2016;
Whereas Richard James Jr., 57, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, perished on August 15, 2016;
Whereas Samuel Muse, 54, of Greensburg, Louisiana, perished on August 13, 2016;
Whereas Kenneth Slocum, 59, of Tangipahoa Village, Louisiana, perished on August 14, 2016;
Whereas Earrol Lewis, 49, of Houston, Texas, perished on August 15, 2016;
Whereas Stacy Ruffin, 44, of Roseland, Louisiana, perished on August 13, 2016;
Whereas Alexandra “Ally” Budde, 20, of Hammond, Louisiana, perished on August 14, 2016;
Whereas Ordatha Hoggatt, 57, of Leesville, Louisiana, perished on August 14, 2016;
Whereas an unnamed woman, 93, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, perished on August 17, 2016;
Whereas an unidentified man of Denham Springs, Louisiana, perished on August 17, 2016; and
Whereas the people of the United States stand united with the people of Louisiana and the families of the victims—
(1) to support all individuals affected; and
(2) to pray for healing and restoration: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate—
(1) honors the memory and legacy of the 12 Louisiana citizens and 1 Texas citizen who lost their lives in the August 2016 flooding;
(2) extends its heartfelt condolences and prayers to the families of the victims and to all affected individuals in the communities of the flooded parishes;
(3) recognizes the skill and sacrifice of the law enforcement officers, first responders, and volunteers who have demonstrated tremendous resolve throughout the recovery;
(4) commends the efforts of individuals who are working to care and provide for the injured and displaced;
(5) applauds the generous support, assistance, and aid provided by people across the United States; and
(6) pledges to continue to work together—
(A) to support Louisiana in its time of need; and
(B) aid efforts to restore the affected communities.
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