Bell, Members of the Missouri Delegation Call for Swift Approval of Governor Kehoe’s Federal Disaster Declaration

Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and five Representatives of the Missouri Delegation, along with both Missouri Senators, led a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging immediate approval of Governor Mike Kehoe’s request for a major disaster declaration following the deadly and destructive storms that struck the St. Louis region on May 16.

“On May 16, 2025, devastating storms swept across the Midwest, triggering catastrophic flooding and tornadoes that claimed at least 28 lives—26 of them in Missouri and Kentucky. In St. Louis alone, at least five individuals were killed, dozens were hospitalized, and more than 5,000 structures were damaged, with losses estimated to exceed $1 billion. These storms come on the heels of damaging weather events in March and April, further compounding the challenges facing communities already working to rebuild,” wrote the lawmakers.

“The State of Missouri has been working closely with local governments to coordinate emergency shelter, debris removal, infrastructure assessments, and other critical response efforts. A major disaster declaration would unlock vital federal assistance to support these operations, including Public Assistance for emergency protective measures and infrastructure repair, Individual Assistance for displaced and impacted residents, and Hazard Mitigation assistance to help reduce the risk of future disasters. These resources are essential to stabilizing affected communities and safeguarding public health and safety,” continued the lawmakers.

“Given the scale of devastation and the urgent need for federal assistance, we respectfully request swift approval of Missouri’s disaster declaration. We appreciate your attention to this matter and stand ready to support efforts to ensure resources reach those who need them most.” concluded the lawmakers.

A major disaster declaration is a critical tool for unlocking federal assistance in the wake of extreme weather events. It allows communities to access Public Assistance for emergency work and infrastructure repair, Individual Assistance for families who have lost their homes or belongings, and Hazard Mitigation funds to help reduce future disaster risks. Without this designation, hard-hit areas like St. Louis face a longer, more expensive road to recovery—with local governments and residents shouldering the burden alone.

The letter was also signed by Representatives Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Robert F. Onder, Jr. (R-Mo.), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-Mo.), Jason Smith (R-Mo.), Mark Alford (R-Mo.), and Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Eric S. Schmitt (R-Mo.).

Read the full letter here.