President Donald J. Trump today approved Georgia's emergency declaration. The announcement comes shortly after Congressman Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (GA-01) requested that President Trump expedite the approval of Governor Nathan Deal's emergency declaration request. 

The approval authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to identify, mobilize, and provide equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of Hurricane Irma. Debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent Federal funding. 

"This is extremely welcome news," said Carter. "We know firsthand in the First District how severe the impacts of a hurricane can be and approving this emergency declaration before the storm arrives in Georgia is very important for our relief efforts. This will be critical for efforts to save lives, protect property, and ensure public safety. We could have a long road ahead of us, but we are taking every action possible to prepare." 

The emergency declaration applies to the counties included in Governor Deal's request. These counties are Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Echols, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Glynn, Jenkins, Jeff Davis, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Pierce, Screven, Tattnall, Toombs, Treutlen, Wayne, and Ware.